Tahj Washington NFL Draft Profile, Cornerback
Class: 5th Year Senior
College: USC Trojans
Height: 5’9″
Weight: 177 pounds
Pro Day Results:
NFL Player Comparison
Xavier Gipson, Stephan F. Austin State University
Projection
7th Round
USC Draft Prospects:
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Calen Bullock NFL Draft Profile
Christian Roland-Wallace NFL Draft Profile
Tahj Washington NFL Draft Profile: Bio
Tahj Washington, a 3-star recruit out of Marshall High School, initially joined Memphis before transferring to USC. His collegiate journey saw steady progress, with notable contributions each season. In 2019, as a freshman at Memphis, he saw limited action, recording just three receptions. However, by his sophomore year, Washington emerged as a key player, amassing over 700 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
His transfer to USC in 2021 saw continued success, with consistent contributions over the next two seasons, culminating in an impressive senior campaign where he amassed over 950 receiving yards and six touchdowns, showcasing his growth and impact on the field.
Tahj Washington NFL Draft Profile: Upside
Over the past four years, Washington has consistently delivered impressive performances, showcasing his reliability and durability on the field. Renowned for his exceptional toughness, he fearlessly navigates through traffic to secure contested catches, a skill that sets him apart from others of similar size. His ability to vary his speed and maintain ambiguity in his route running adds an element of unpredictability to his game.
Moreover, Washington demonstrates a willingness to engage as a blocker in the run game, displaying commendable physicality and tenacity. Additionally, he possesses explosiveness as both a punt and kick returner, further enhancing his value on special teams, where he also contributes as a gunner with his talent and determination
Tahj Washington NFL Draft Profile: Downside
With notably short arms and small hands, Washington’s catch radius is limited, posing a challenge for quarterbacks targeting him. He exhibits average quickness when maneuvering in and out of his breaks, which contributes to his difficulty in creating significant separation from defenders.
Washington lacks early explosion off the line of scrimmage, making it challenging for him to outpace press coverage. Additionally, his struggles with downfield throws are compounded by his vulnerability to larger defenders who can easily overtake him in coverage situations.