Boise State standouts Matt Lauter and Zion Washington sign NFL free agent deals
Following the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft, Boise State football fans have reason to celebrate as two of the program's standout players, Matt Lauter and Zion Washington, have signed deals with NFL teams. KTVB reports that both athletes have successfully transitioned to the professional level, continuing the Broncos' long-standing tradition of producing NFL-caliber talent. Lauter and Washington were key contributors to the Boise State roster, and their move to the professional ranks is a testament to the strength of the program and the coaching staff’s ability to develop players for the highest level of competition. Their signing as free agents provides them with an opportunity to compete for roster spots during upcoming training camps.
The 2026 draft cycle was a significant one for the Mountain West Conference, and Boise State once again proved to be a focal point for scouts and executives. While not all players from the program were selected in the seven rounds of the draft, the quick signing of Lauter and Washington underscores the value that professional teams place on the fundamentals and work ethic instilled in Boise. Sports Illustrated noted that the Mountain West fared well overall in 2026, with several players finding homes across the league. For Boise State, having players regularly enter the NFL is a powerful recruiting tool that helps the program maintain its status as a perennial contender in the collegiate ranks.
As Lauter and Washington prepare for the rigors of NFL mini-camps, the Boise community is rallying behind them. Their journeys from the blue turf of Albertsons Stadium to the professional gridiron are being closely followed by local media and fans. The success of these individuals also reflects positively on the Boise State athletic department, which continues to invest in the resources necessary to compete at a high level. Moving forward, the focus for these two players will be on learning their respective teams' playbooks and proving their worth on the field. Their success in the NFL would further solidify Boise State’s reputation as a 'pro-style' factory in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.