Kalen DeBoer Reveals Why Former Alabama Captain TE Danny Lewis Returned to Washington
The University of Washington has been riding high under head coach Kalen DeBoer, who has reinvigorated the program and put the Huskies back into national contention. One of the more intriguing stories this season is the return of former Alabama captain and tight end Danny Lewis, who initially transferred to Alabama but found his way back to Washington. On Friday, DeBoer revealed the key reasons behind Lewis’s decision to return, shedding light on the values and culture that define the Huskies’ football program.
Danny Lewis began his collegiate career at Washington under DeBoer’s guidance. Known for his physicality, leadership, and ability to make plays in critical moments, Lewis quickly became a key figure in Washington’s offense. His presence as a locker-room leader earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike, setting the foundation for a promising career.
However, following an impressive season, Lewis transferred to Alabama, drawn by the allure of competing for a perennial College Football Playoff contender under Nick Saban. While at Alabama, Lewis continued to develop his skills and contributed as a reliable tight end, but the move wasn’t without its challenges. Despite the prestige of Alabama’s program, Lewis reportedly felt disconnected from the environment, prompting him to consider a return to a place where he felt more at home.
In his comments, Kalen DeBoer emphasized that Lewis’s return was about more than just football. For the tight end, it was a decision rooted in relationships, personal growth, and a desire to contribute to a culture that prioritizes trust and development.
“Danny’s return says a lot about what we’re building here at Washington,” DeBoer explained. “He had a great experience at Alabama, and we respect that program immensely. But sometimes, it’s about finding the right fit, and for Danny, that fit was here with us.”
DeBoer highlighted the strong bond between Lewis and his former teammates, as well as the coaching staff’s unwavering support during his time away. According to DeBoer, the door was always open for Lewis to return, and when the opportunity arose, both sides were eager to make it happen.
One of the key reasons behind Lewis’s decision to return was the culture DeBoer has cultivated at Washington. Known for his player-first approach, DeBoer has created an environment where athletes feel valued not only for their on-field performance but also for their personal and academic growth.
“We focus on developing the whole person, not just the player,” DeBoer said. “Danny recognized that this is a place where he can thrive both on and off the field. It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself.”
DeBoer’s emphasis on loyalty and continuity has resonated with players, and Lewis’s return is a testament to the strength of those values. The tight end cited his connection to his teammates, the opportunity to play in a system that showcases his skills, and his belief in DeBoer’s vision as driving factors in his decision.
Lewis’s return couldn’t have come at a better time for Washington. As a versatile and experienced tight end, he adds another dimension to an already potent offense. His ability to block effectively, make tough catches, and serve as a reliable red-zone target makes him a valuable asset for the Huskies.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Lewis’s leadership will be crucial as Washington navigates a competitive Pac-12 landscape and sets its sights on the College Football Playoff. His experience at Alabama, combined with his familiarity with Washington’s system, makes him a unique presence in the locker room.
For Kalen DeBoer and the Washington Huskies, Danny Lewis’s return is a win on multiple fronts. It reinforces the program’s culture of loyalty and growth, strengthens the team’s depth at a critical position, and sends a powerful message to current and future recruits about what makes Washington special.
As the Huskies continue their pursuit of conference and national success, the return of a player like Danny Lewis underscores the program’s upward trajectory under DeBoer’s leadership. For Lewis, it’s a chance to finish what he started and leave a lasting legacy in a place he calls home.