Powell attended O'Dea High School in Seattle, Washington.

He received offers from Ivy League schools such as Columbia, Yale, and Georgetown, but Powell decided to walk on to play college football for the Washington Huskies.

[4] Powell finished his first season in 2021 with 11 tackles, three pass deflections, and a forced fumble.

[7] He recorded his first career interception in week 3 of the 2023 season in a win over Michigan State.

[8] In week 8, Powell returned an interception 89 yards for a touchdown as he helped the Huskies beat Arizona State.