The Do-Everything Parker Washington is the next __?
Parker Washington
Penn State
Wide Receiver
5’10, 212lbs
2022 Stats: 46 REC 611 YDS 2 TDs
Pros
Washington’s biggest strengths are his hands and his ability to break tackles in the open field. His immediate impact in the NFL is likely as a return specialist, but he has the potential to grow into a larger role in a creative offensive scheme. His numbers in college don’t jump off the page, with his best season being in 2021 in which he had 64 catches for 820 yards and 4 TDs, however, a lot of his yardage totals came after the catch, which is what a team drafting him will want to see translate to the NFL.
While only listed at 5-foot-10, he’s a solid 212 pounds, which is a little stockier than most receivers at that height. His larger frame allows him to break arm tackles and bounce-off defenders for extra yardage. He profiles as a slot receiver in the NFL and will likely take a year or two to develop into a player that can contribute on offense.
Cons
When I watched his tape, his route-running left a lot to be desired, often rounding out at the top of his routes and creating very little separation, which is why a lot of his highlight reel catches were of the contested variety. He doesn’t possess the top-end speed to play on the outside, and while he is explosive when high-pointing the ball, he didn’t look particularly explosive in his release off the line.
Summary
All-in-all, Washington will find his way onto an NFL team and will contribute in some form or fashion, whether that be on special teams or as a gadget offensive weapon, but that won’t amount to much fantasy production. That’s not to say that he doesn’t have the potential for it later down the road, but initially he’ll be a player you draft for your taxi squad, and hope he lands in a good situation.
2023 Dynasty Rookie Draft Projection: Mid-to-late 3rd round
Ideal Role: Punt Returner/Gadget Offensive Weapon
Player Comp: Lynn Bowden is his floor, Deebo Samuel-lite is his ceiling.
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