Washington State running back Wayshawn Parker is transferring to Utah

The Utah Utes expanded their running back depth on Friday with the signing of Wayshawn Parker, a talented transfer from Washington State.

Parker, a standout freshman who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 200 pounds, announced his decision to transfer to Utah on Friday, giving the Utes a much-needed upgrade in their backfield. Ranked as the No. 2 running back in the transfer portal by 247Sports, Parker brings immediate impact potential to a unit that saw significant turnover in the offseason.

Parker enjoyed a standout freshman campaign at Washington State, rushing for 735 yards and four touchdowns while adding 108 receiving yards and a score on 11 receptions. His dynamic skillset and versatility make him a prime candidate to take over as Utah’s RB1 in 2025.

Notably, Parker will reunite with his former running backs coach Mark Atuaia in Salt Lake City. Atuaia played a crucial role in Parker’s development during his freshman season and was a key factor in Parker’s initial commitment to Washington State. Their renewed partnership promises to realize Parker’s full potential in the Utah system.

Parker’s arrival is part of Utah’s broader effort to rebuild its running back room after losing key players like Micah Bernard and Charlie Vincent to graduation and several others, including Dijon Stanley and Anthony Woods, entering the transfer portal. The room now includes Parker, New Mexico State transfer Mike Washington, New Mexico transfer NaQuari Rogers and redshirt freshman Mike Mitchell. The Utes also added four-star recruit Raycine Guillory and three-star prospect Daniel Bray from their incoming freshman class.

While the competition for the starting position will be fierce, Parker’s combination of strength, speed and shooting ability make him a leading candidate for the position. He reportedly chose Utah over offers from USC, UCLA and Arizona, citing the opportunity to work with Atuaia and join a competitive program as deciding factors.

With Parker leading a revitalized backfield, Utah’s running game should be an important weapon as the Utes look to remain Big 12 contenders.