Over the next couple of weeks, we here at Bulldawg Illustrated are going to be looking at Georgia football’s incoming freshman class of 2020 in a new series called First Year Look. The Bulldogs’ 2020 class features 25 signees that collectively finished as the No. 1 recruiting class in the country, according to 247Sports and Rivals.
All 25 of Georgia’s incoming freshmen have reported to campus before workouts started on June 8. Now, they are prepping for their first preseason camp. Over the past couple of days, Bulldawg Illustrated has taken a look a good portion of the 2020 class, and today we will move on to Darnell Washington.
Per the 247Sports Composite, Washington is the No. 23 ranked overall prospect, No. 2 athlete, and No. 1 ranked player in Nevada. His recruitment was very similar to Kelee Ringo’s as both decided to announce their decision on national television, but both had signed with UGA during the early period. The Bulldogs needed a tight end desperately in this class and the coaching staff went out and got a talented one.
“Tall frame with broad build. Carries 240 pounds well, but looks maxed-out physically. Long strides as a runner and good speed for his size. Strong pass-catcher who is a matchup nightmare in the red zone. Uses his body well to shield defenders. Big target who can run past most linebackers. Decent hands and can high-point the football. Could use refinement in route running and fluidity. Must also make strides as a run blocker. Potential to make an immediate impact at Power Five level as true freshman. Upside as second-round NFL Draft selection.”
Blair Angulo, 247Sports
Washington has the potential to become a matchup problem at tight end against opposing defenses. He’s fast and athletic for linebackers to completely grasp a hold on him. He’s also a lot bigger than most defensive backs and will provide some great blocks from defenders coming off the edge as well. He will probably have to drop a few pounds this summer as he starts to work with the UGA strength and conditioning program. He will also need to work on being more aggressive on 50/50 balls, but his incredible vertical leap should help with that.
Georgia’s tight end spot is pretty wide open considering there will be a few guys competing for the starting job. Graduate transfer Tre’ McKitty is the most experience followed by redshirt sophomore John FitzPatrick. Then a pair of redshirt freshman in Ryland Goede and Brett Seither, who rarely saw the field last season. Washington has a great opportunity to start quickly and become a major factor in the new offense. We’re sure that new offensive coordinator Todd Monken will find ways to use him.
Check out the these other First Year Look profiles as well: