TCU weak security Ar’Darius Washington emerged after a 2019 breakout season in which he was named Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year and was named Freshman All-American by The Athletic and FWAA. With that success came the prospect for the NFL Draft and the chance to make an early selection. The second year Redshirt has decided to forego the rest of its eligibility and continue its professional career.
Washington didn’t see much time in 2018, but he became a starter, playing high-level low security for the Horned Frogs in 2019. He finished second among all rookies with five interceptions while adding seven passes defended. Injuries slowed Washington’s pace in 2020, where he recorded five passes defended and 37 tackles in total. Washington has been a Pro Football Focus favorite for the past two seasons. Second place among all securities behind only teammate Trevon Moehrig, who turns out to be the first round draft pick.
Washington will be one of the smallest securities in the 2021 NFL Draft, standing 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 179 pounds. Players like Tampa Bay Buccaneers ‘rookie Antoine Winfield Jr. and Kansas City Chiefs’ star tyrant Mathieu recently demonstrated during the Big Game that small security precautions can have dynamic effects on their respective teams. Winfield was second round in 2020, Mathieu third round in 2013.
Washington listed mock drafts from the second through the fourth round. In particular, PFF lists Washington as a second round view. What scouts about Washington might be intrigued by is its cover ability, which makes it suitable either as free security or as a nickelback, as an additional defender in obvious passing situations. NFL.com Writer Chad Reuter Slots Washington to the New Orleans Saints with the 106th overall selection, the last in round 3.
Additionally, WalterFootball.com Projects Washington to the Dallas Cowboys in round 3 with the 75th overall selection. The Cowboys could opt for Washington, switching from 2017 former sixth classic Xavier Woods who will be a free agent this off-season. The Saints will likely address their secondary education as well, with both Marcus Williams and PJ Williams entering the free hand. Möhrig has brought several sham designs in line with New Orleans.
Pro Football Network’s Nick Farabaugh ponders Washington will go to the Jacksonville Jaguars With the first round 4 election, Jacksonville doesn’t have much free security talent right now outside of Jarrod Wilson, who will be a free agent after 2021. Washington could play an important role before it has a bigger chance of contest next year.
Washington is the second TCU player in the 2021 NFL draft after Moehrig, but with limited mock drafts beyond the first round currently available, it’s difficult to really project where the talented security buffs might end up. Whichever team lands in Washington, there will be an instinctive, fluid player who has shown throughout the 2019 season that he can play like one of the best security guards in college football.
