Todd McShay shares interesting role NFL executive sees Parker Washington filling

Penn State wide receiver Parker Washington is viewed as a fringe day two day three pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. But just because he is predicted to go later rather than sooner does not mean he has not caught the attention of NFL franchises. During a recent media conference call, ESPN draft expert Todd McShay revealed that Washington’s style of play is intriguing to at least one franchise because of his versatility.

“Parker Washington from Penn State is a guy; I just got off the phone yesterday with a GM who was talking about him as kind of (an) intriguing third, fourth-round range,” said McShay. “Because they view him as a slot receiver that can also play the running back position. And, so I think there’s more and more of that in the league, and we see every year.”

Outside of being a threat at wide receiver, Washington was primarily used as a return man by Penn State. Still, in his three years with the Nittany Lions, he did record four rushing attempts for 20 yards. As a return man, Washington returned a total of 19 punts and five kickoffs. For punt returns, he had a total of 104 yards and averaged 5.5 yards per return. And on kickoffs, he averaged 20 yards per return, with a total of 100 yards. Overall, Washington ended his career at Penn State, recording 146 catches for 1920 yards and 12 touchdowns over a span of 32 games.

Washington could be the next star offensive weapon

During the segment, McShay highlighted players who can be utilized in multiple spots in the offense, making them offensive weapons. Typically it is a running back that is used as an offensive weapon most times because of their size and strength; running backs like the San Francisco 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey and the New Orleans Saints Alvin Kamara. But in recent years, teams have been looking for multifaceted players throughout various positions.

Sticking with the NFC South theme, the Atlanta Falcons did so last season with Cordarrelle Patterson using him in just about any way imaginable. And the Saint’s other offensive weapon, the swiss army knife known as Taysom Hill, was arguably the engine that helped their offense remain productive despite a rash of injuries.

There’s no guarantee on how Parker will be used at the next level. But if he falls somewhere in the category of the previously mentioned offensive weapons come, he will be in good company and quite possibly carve out a long and successful NFL career.