Gurley to focus on defense at Eastern Washington

Published 4:21 pm Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Anfernee Gurley is going from one winning football program to another.

Gurley, who played a pivotal role in Archbishop Murphy’s run to a 2A state championship this season, has given a verbal commitment to continue his football career at Eastern Washington University.

“I’ve known (cornerbacks coach and recruiting coordinator Cherokee Valeria) for four years now, and have built a great relationship with him and the entire coaching staff,” Gurley said. “I felt that (choosing Eastern Washington) was the best decision for me.”

Gurley was named as the Cascade Conference’s Co-Offensive Player of the Year in 2016 as a wide receiver, but will focus on defense and special teams at Eastern.

“They’re talking about playing him at nickelback, a hybrid safety-cornerback (position), and using him in the slot, which is something he’s done a lot for us,” said Wildcats coach Jerry Jensen. “It’s a good fit for him position-wise at the next level.”

“I’ve always wanted to play defense,” said Gurley, a first-team all-conference selection at defensive back in 2016. “I’m a defensive-minded person. I grew up with my dad as my coach, and he was defensive-minded. That’s how I grew up playing football. I have the mentality that I’m going to stop you, and there’s no way you’ll prove otherwise. That’s the mentality that I like to play with.”

Gurley posted 583 receiving yards, 437 rushing yards, two interceptions and 15 total touchdowns in 2016.

Eastern Washington has won five Big Sky Conference championships since head coach Beau Baldwin took over in 2010. The Eagles advanced to the Football Championship Series semifinal round this season.

“He wanted to go to a program that’s had success,” Jensen said. “He’s got (friends) there, so it’s a comfort thing for him. With his competitive abilities, I’m sure he’ll rise to the occasion.”