Five Cougars to watch in Washington State’s spring game

PULLMAN – Spring games should come with a disclaimer.

It should inform fans that playbooks are shrunk, rosters are jumbled, and that the list of players who broke out in spring games never to be heard from again is long.

But a discerning fan can still glean some information, and it’s always fun to get an early glimpse at next year’s stars. So here are five players who you likely have not seen play much, but who will probably get a lot of snaps next year.

Dezmon Patmon, wide receiver: The 6-foot-4 receiver has been the breakout player of spring practices. Can he help fill the void left by Gabe Marks?

Hunter Dale, nickel: Dale has big shoes to fill by taking Shalom Luani’s do-everything position. So far he’s appeared up to the task.

Marcus Strong, cornerback: The competition with Marcellus Pippins for the starting spot has been the most heated position battle of the spring, and has made both players better for it.

Easop Winston, wide receiver: He received glowing reviews from quarterback Luke Falk, who said he’s never thrown to a receiver with softer hands.

Kingston Fernandez, defensive end: Alex Grinch singled out Fernandez as one of the defense’s standouts of the spring. A big year from the junior would ease concerns about WSU’s defensive line.