Rebels add Washington transfer to defensive line

Darren Abate / (AP Photo)

Washington’s Josh Shirley, center, Gregory Ducre, left, and Alameda Ta’amu celebrate a sack during the first half of the Alamo Bowl college football game against Baylor, Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at the Alamodome in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Darren Abate)

By Taylor Bern

Friday, Aug. 8, 2014 | 1:20 p.m.

The Rebels’ defensive line got a big boost today with the addition of Washington transfer Josh Shirley.

Shirley, listed at 6-foot-3 and 228 pounds, will be eligible immediately with one season remaining. Over three years with the Huskies, Shirley had 18 sacks, although his role was reduced over the years. That’s likely part of the reason he was looking to transfer closer to home in southern California.

While the Rebels’ defensive line needs are more on the interior, where they’re replacing both starting defensive tackles, Shirley’s abilities on the end could be a huge asset. UNLV also has returners Jordan Sparkman and Sonny Sanitoa at defensive end.

Taylor Bern can be reached at 948-7844 or [email protected]. Follow Taylor on Twitter at twitter.com/taylorbern.