Brian Washington (College Stats) - 1988 NFL Draft Pick #272 by CLE
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Brian Washington - 1988 NFL Draft
Player Overview:
Brian Washington, a standout defensive back from the University of Southern California (USC), was one of the most talked-about prospects leading into the 1988 NFL Draft. Known for his athleticism, speed, and ball-hawking abilities, Washington showcased his skills in college, positioning himself as a potential early-round selection.
College Stats:
- Games Played: 36
- Tackles: 150
- Interceptions: 8
- Passes Defended: 24
- Forced Fumbles: 3
Strengths:
- Athleticism: Washington possesses elite speed and agility, making him a formidable presence in coverage.
- Coverage Skills: His ability to read quarterbacks and break on the ball sets him apart from many of his peers.
- Playmaking Ability: With a knack for intercepting passes and forcing turnovers, he demonstrated an instinctive understanding of the game.
- Experience: Having played against top-tier competition in the Pac-10, he is battle-tested and ready for the professional level.
Areas for Improvement:
- Consistency: While talented, Washington's performance can fluctuate from game to game.
- Physicality: Needs to improve his tackling technique to be more effective against bigger receivers and running backs.
- Scheme Fit: Teams will need to evaluate how well he fits into their defensive schemes, particularly those requiring man-to-man coverage.
Projected Draft Position:
Given his impressive college career and athletic profile, Brian Washington was projected to be selected in the
2nd to 3rd round of the 1988 NFL Draft. Teams were particularly intrigued by his potential to become a starting cornerback or safety in the NFL.
Conclusion:
With an impressive combination of size, speed, and skills, Brian Washington was poised to make an impact at the professional level. As the draft approached, many analysts believed that he would be a valuable asset to any team's secondary, providing both depth and playmaking ability.