Kobe Bryant and Jett Washington (Photos via Getty Images & _.jett_/IG)
The late Kobe Bryant has a nephew who’s following in his footsteps, except for the fact that he’s also a stud at football.

Jett Washington, a four-star prospect for the 2026 class, is the No.1-ranked player in Nevada and the No. 6-ranked athlete in the country. Several top schools are vying for him in what has to be a wild recruiting period for the youngster.

According to Rivals.com, Washington has narrowed his favored schools down to Michigan, Tennessee, Alabama, and Notre Dame following contact from said programs.

“Alabama, Oregon, Notre Dame, Tennessee, Texas, Michigan and Washington are the early standouts for the 2026 four-star athlete from Las Vegas Bishop Gorman who is also (related to the late Kobe Bryant),” the outlet’s Adam Gorney revealed on Monday.

Gorney noted that USC has always been Washington’s “dream school,” but the parties haven’t made contact yet.

Jett Washington Wants To Blaze His Own Trail After Learning From His Legendary Uncle, Kobe Bryant

The star defensive back, who also plays basketball for Bishop Gorman High School in Vegas, is the son of the former Lakers star’s sister, Sharia.

He grew up under Kobe’s wing, soaking up advice, and also played basketball with his cousin, Gianna Bryant, who also lost her life in that fatal helicopter crash in 2020.

Washington stars as a safety and a wide receiver on the football field. And, while he’s an exceptional basketball player, he wants to pursue a career on the gridiron.

“Sometimes I feel a little bit of pressure (being Kobe Bryant’s nephew), but my parents make sure I don’t feel it too much,” he told The Athletic in an interview earlier this year.

“They tell me to just go out there and have fun, don’t try to overthink and just play.

“My uncle was a great player. At the same time, I know he wanted me to make my own name. He laid the foundation for me. I’m just grateful.” 

Kobe fans will likely keep tabs on Washington as he continues to develop. It will be extra special if he realizes his dream of going pro.