Here are 5 teams that could draft “toughness” rare gem and UVA product, Malik Washington in this year’s NFL Draft. It’s fair to say this wide receiver draft class is loaded across the board this year. As many as nine receivers could be called up in the first-round but Washington is one receiver that isn’t garnering much attention. Teams could consider looking into the UVA product as the next rare weapon predicted as a mid-round receiver.
However, Washington is lacking height and weight entering the competitive draft this year but it didn’t stop the success last season. He was one of the most dominant players across the country, notching 110 catches for 1,426 yards and 10 touchdowns. Despite his build, he was still able to contribute to an incredible campaign, having 35 missed tackles and crushing the contested catch rate percentage. Washington is the type of player to thrive in the slot and could be vital to the run game.
It seems like his build doesn’t matter after all, he could turn a short-yardage play into a big one. According to Pro Football Focus, Washington isn’t ranked among Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers and Rome Odunze. However, his “toughness” comes from what he can create despite the size against big defenders and the yards he can rack up. According to Bleacher Report, his pro comparison is to Albert Wilson so he could be explosive in the slot.
With good concentration, he could make flashy plays and turn them into something with the ability to win the ball in the air.
5 Teams That Could Draft Malik Washington
Tennessee Titans
Titans General Manager Brian Callahan mentions the receiver class this year is so deep that they could select one in the fourth-round. Most rare receivers aren’t rated high but they could make an impact on a team like the Titans. Will Levis had a decent campaign last season but he continues to build on what he can do next. Washington alongside Calvin Ridley can be that duo to change the offense around heavily.
He brings that unique quality that could make sure that Derrick Henry’s presence isn’t felt despite him leaving for the Ravens. Washington could act as a the back the Titans may be missing this year. However, the Titans did acquire Tony Pollard in free agency so both could act as the speedy duo on slant plays.
Baltimore Ravens
The release of Odell Beckham Jr. shows they need a young receiver who has plenty of years in the tank. Adding Washington could be similar to what Marquise Brown is before moving on to the Chiefs. His size limitations shouldn’t concern someone like Lamar Jackson, he’s the type to jump out of the pocket to make plays. Washington would be the perfect addition to make those types of speedy plays that make someone go all the way.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are thanking this year’s loaded receiver draft class that can help franchise quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. The Draft will have every type of receiver this year which is good news for the Chiefs after struggling with their wideout corps last season. However, they still need to add a receiver after the Rashee Rice Car Crash. The duo of Brown and Washington could make the offense look like Sonic on the field come week one this season.
Los Angeles Chargers
Losing Mike Williams and Keenan Allen shows Justin Herbert could struggle this year. The cash-strapped team was near to losing their defensive stars but they sacrificed their offensive weapons this offseason. Adding Washington could fill the space as a slot receiver while the Chargers figure out their deep threat.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys need a reliable slot receiver and Washington could be the answer. The release of Michael Gallup shows the offense is going to lack if they don’t select at least one receiver. They have Brandin Cooks and are at risk of CeeDee Lamb holding out this season.
