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James Washington has dazzled NFL scouts and analysts throughout the week at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL. He’s burned countless corners, and has showed off the skills that Oklahoma State fans and coaches became accustomed to seeing during his time as a Cowboy.
James Washington is way too strong for this 190-lb CB. Get off of me! pic.twitter.com/4elobIuRRP
— Fusue Vue (@lifesyourcup) January 25, 2018
Even with a Biletnikoff Award in tow, it seemed like scouts were somehow surprised by Washington’s dominance.
James Washington silenced a lot of the doubts I had coming into this week with his route running. Hardest player to guard all week in man coverage, looked like an incredible athlete, caught everything his way. I think he has to be in the conversation at 19.
— Jonah Tuls (@JonahTulsNFL) January 25, 2018
The above tweet is one of just many in which we saw NFL scouts take back their words after Washington blew them away this week. Mike Gundy took notice to the utter disrespect, and sounded off on Twitter today.
Did James Washington sneak up on the world? He's been running great routes, making big plays and been more productive than any WR in college football. @MikeMayock @Alex_Flanagan @SeniorBowlPhil @nflnetwork #SeniorBowl #okstate
— Mike Gundy (@CoachGundy) January 26, 2018
Shocked that anyone had a doubt in James Washington's route running skills. He has been coached by the best WR coach in the country, @kasey_dunn. @espn @FOXSports @nflnetwork https://t.co/z0jRkvbWGG
— Mike Gundy (@CoachGundy) January 26, 2018
The fact that scouts are surprised by Washington’s performance, especially given what he’d accomplished in his illustrious career, is still beyond me. Regardless, Washington has improved his draft stock tremendously, and will likely be the first receiver taken off the board in April’s NFL Draft.