Draft Analysis: Malik Washington

April 8, 2024 /
  • Height: 5’8″
  • Weight: 191 lb.
  • College: Virginia
  • Tape watched: North Carolina, Louisville, Miami, Tennessee
  • NFL Comparison: Demario Douglas

Pros

  • Hands

Malik Washington has incredibly reliable hands in all situations. With a 50% contested catch rate through 42 contested targets the last two years, Washington is undeniably one of the most reliable slot options in the draft. He shows a great ability to play outside of his frame both in the middle of the field and on sideline catches.

  • Explosiveness/YAC

With 59 missed tackles forced (1st in NCAA) in the last two seasons, no college receiver has been more difficult to tackle after the catch than Malik Washington. Washington has great explosiveness after the catch that he pairs with his low center of gravity. He carries 191 pounds really well for his short stature. His playstyle works well with offenses that use motion and quick-designed plays to the slot receiver.

  • Route Running

A hyper efficient route runner, Malik Washington thrives underneath safeties. He boasted an impressive 3.15 yards per route run. For reference, 3.0 YRR is a great indicator of good route runners historically.

Washington probably won’t be a consistent deep-threat due to his size and lack of perimeter receiver experience. He had a paltry 8.1 yards average depth of target as evidence. Corners were able to put their hands on Washington and keep him from separating downfield. In zone coverage, Washington has a superb feel for zone coverage. He has a good knack for slipping over and under zone defenders.

Midline

  • Release

Unchallenged by press coverage from the slot, Washington attacks his stems with suddenness. He has a visible plan for each route. Corners were able to re-route Washington once they got their hands on him, however.

Cons

  • Blocking

Washington is not overeager to reach his blocking assignment. When he does set his blocks up, there are a lot of inconsistencies. While he is stronger than your average 5’8″ receiver, he fails to use that extra muscle and built in leverage to his advantage.

  • Size

Historically a major red flag, Washington stands at just 5’8″. His catch radius and stride length are major hurdles in the NFL. He will struggle to win solely on his explosiveness, and he likely won’t be able to maintain a 50% contested catch rate.

Overview

Malik Washington burst onto the scene in 2023, with nearly 1,400 yards and 9 touchdowns. The fifth-year Northwestern transfer has a clear path to success in the NFL, molded by players like Deebo Samuel and recently Demario Douglas for the Patriots. He can be a reliable slot option if he can continue to dominate between the sticks. If Washington can develop into a target downfield, he could easily become a 2nd option for an NFL team.