2024 Draft Profile: Wide Receiver Malik Washington

This change in scenery proved to be the best choice he could have possibly made. You can see from his numbers above that Washington emerged as a true superstar in the UVA offense, setting career bests in nearly every category. It was so good that he nearly doubled his career production across the board in that one standout year. 

Virginia’s Malik Washington has constantly shown off his route running prowess at the East-West Shrine Bowl. Subtle movements and fancy footwork have made him a terror with his stem work. pic.twitter.com/dpq0GUSlFX

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) January 29, 2024

Washington would parlay his super-senior year into an invitation to the East-West Shrine Bowl. He took advantage of the opportunity and was a legitimate standout in Dallas. His separation skills and, in particular, his YAC ability were on full display in practice after practice. His success against other high-level seniors validated his final big year for the numerous coaches in attendance. 

#Virginia WR Malik Washington has been one of the most impressive players so far at the @ShrineBowl. Fluid, sudden and good hands. pic.twitter.com/PqsV4G86VR

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) January 28, 2024

Film Breakdown

When you scout tape on Washington, the first thing that stands out is his ability to get open. He uses his shorter stature to leave defenders in the dust with quick twitch movements. His 4.47 speed is on full display every week as he routinely made plays while putting up a college football best, ten games of 100 yards or more. 

Despite his smaller size, Washington was used as a YAC weapon. In a manner somewhat reminiscent of a poor man’s Deebo Samuel, the Cavilers used Washington on short, quick screens, which allowed him to use his run-after-catch ability to pick his way through the defense and chew up yards.

During his lone season at UVA, Washington also developed a nose for the endzone. Whether pinned against the boundary or breaking through tackles, he hit paydirt and put six on the board. 

Due in part to his low center of gravity, Washington proved hard to bring down. He routinely fought through arm tackles and turned five yards into chunk plays. With moves like these, he could be a dynamite slot receiver at the next level. 

Sometimes, when you scout a player, it is easy to see when numbers show up on the film. Take the example below. Washington put up a 42.5 vertical at the combine. In the play below, notice how he can jump over the defender despite his shorter stature.

Washington will need to work on some areas heading to the next level. His smaller size will never change. However, that does mean he will need to work on his blocking technique. He is willing to work in this department but could use some work.

Another area in which Washington needs some refining is his release off the line of scrimmage. He didn’t display a diverse package in this area, and he could benefit from some work at the release point. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, I think there is quite a bit to like about Washington. Early in the process, scouts expressed concern about his perceived lack of top-end speed. His 4.47 40-yard dash at the combine alleviated that concern. 

He will also need to prove that he is more than just a one-year wonder. His film from UVA was so much better than what he put down at Northwestern that you almost have to question if it was the system that was holding back the player. Again, Washington assuaged me of many of my concerns about that based on his performance at the Shrine Bowl. All of the coaches involved almost universally lauded him.

I believe that Washington could slip a little bit in the upcoming draft due to the glut of receivers at the position. However, that does not mean that he isn’t a talented player. If he lands in the right spot, he could be an absolute star. I believe that his tape and measured talents will garner him mid-round draft capital. Washington will likely hear his name called in the 3rd-5th rounds. In the right spot, he could be a true PPR asset. Keep an eye on him during the draft and do some of your own scouting. I promise you will like what you see. 

Thank you for reading this article! Please be sure to join the #Nerdherd, so you don’t miss out on any of the amazing things we have to offer @Dynastynerds.com. Use my promo code DynastyHolliday for a 15% off discount. You will get rankings, extra podcasts, and access to our rookie film room. For just a couple of bucks more, you can get access to our revolutionary DynastyGM tool. So much for so little; why miss out on all the fun? Also, you absolutely must check out our new mock draft tool. Find it in your Apple & Android app stores. Follow me @ReflipeWThenuz for more dynasty content and other musings.