PSU 2023 NFL Draft profile brief: WR Parker Washington
As the college football season comes to a close, we now enter draft season. Penn State has quite a few prospects in this year’s draft on both sides of the ball.
One notable name on offense is wide receiver Parker Washington. On the defense, we have cornerback Joey Porter Jr.
Today, we take a look at the career of Washington.
Earlier this week, we took a look at the top moments from Washington throughout his Nittany Lions career.
Washington has the traits to have a productive career at the next level.
The Nittany Lions have had a plethora of offensive talent get drafted into the NFL. As for their pass-catchers, Penn State has had plenty, including players like Chris Godwin, Allen Robinson and most recently, Jahan Dotson.
Washington may not be a first-round draft pick in the spring, but he does have the talent to potentially be a sleeper in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Let’s take a closer look at the strengths and weaknesses of Parker Washington.
Strengths
Nov 5, 2022; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Parker Washington (3) catches a pass in front of Indiana Hoosiers defensive back Jaylin Williams (23) during the first half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports
Parker Washington is a versatile receiver that can excel in multiple areas. His talent molds perfectly as a slot receiver, which is where the bulk of his production came from. Washington also has experience as a kick returner, a trait that might help him sneak his way into a Day 2 draft pick.
Another impressive trait of Washington’s is his hands, which have improved every year he has stepped on the field at Penn State. He first emerged in the 2021 Outback Bowl against Arkansas, and turned heads after his highlight reel catch.
Washington may not have the build to be your prototypical NFL wide receiver. But, he does certainly make people overlook that with the way he plays and how physical he is.
Washington has plenty of NFL traits, but his hands and versatility are what stand out the most in his game.
Weaknesses
Jan 1, 2022; Tampa, FL, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Parker Washington (3) makes a one-handed catch during the first half against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the 2022 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
Washington had a good amount of targets these past two years at Penn State, but he also did it with Jahan Dotson and Mitchell Tinsley the past two seasons. Meaning, both were taking away those targets from Washington. You could make the argument that Washington hasn’t really had the opportunity to be a true number one target with how productive both Dotson and Tinsley were.
Washington had improved his route running before going down with an injury this season. He was on the positive trajectory before he got hurt. It isn’t necessarily an area of major concern, but it is an area where Washington has room to grow.
Draft Projection
Washington has the talent to be a solid slot receiver in the NFL. His skills and consistency can still help him potentially sneak his way into being a Day 2 draft pick.
As of right now, Washington likely projects as an early Day 3-late Day 2 draft pick in the spring.
Washington has plenty of positive traits to be a reliable NFL slot receiver.
Washington’s stats may not be the most jaw-dropping, but they scream consistency, and that is something that will be key to helping his draft stock in the spring.
Follow Nittany Lions Wire on Twitter and like us on Facebook for continuing Penn State coverage and discussion. Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment on this story below. Join the conversation today.
