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DeAndre Washington (Texas Tech) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #143 by OAK


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for DeAndre Washington (Texas Tech)

DeAndre Washington was a standout running back at Texas Tech, showcasing his skills in a high-octane offense. As the 2016 NFL Draft approached, analysts highlighted several key aspects of his game:

  • Speed and Agility: Washington exhibited impressive straight-line speed, making him a threat to break off long runs. His agility allowed him to make quick cuts and evade defenders in the open field.
  • Receiving Ability: One of Washington's notable strengths was his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. He demonstrated reliable hands and could be utilized as a receiving option, adding versatility to his skill set.
  • Vision and Patience: Washington showed good vision when navigating through traffic. He had the patience to wait for blocks to develop, which helped him find running lanes effectively.
  • Durability Concerns: Some analysts raised concerns about his durability due to his relatively lighter frame, which could be a factor in the physical nature of the NFL. This prompted questions about his ability to handle a full workload over an extended season.
  • Offensive System: Playing in Texas Tech's spread offense, there were questions about how his skills would translate to a more traditional NFL scheme, where he might face more stacked boxes and physical defenses.
  • Overall Potential: Despite concerns, Washington was viewed as a player with significant upside. His combination of speed, receiving skills, and playmaking ability made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for a versatile running back option.

Washington was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, with teams considering him as a complementary back who could contribute in various offensive roles.