Name: Elijah Washington
School: Lewis & Clark College
Position: RB/LS
Height: 5-11
Weight: 205
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
Entering my senior season, my coaches and I sat down to map out ambitious but spceficic goals that would showcase the complete player I want to be at the next level. I’m proud to say I rose to meet each challenge, further defining myself as a fierce competitor who’ll leave it all on the field in any role. First, I aimed not just to produce as a feature-back but be an excellent vocal leader who elevated my teammates as well. By organizing additional film work, establishing new positive team traditions, and bringing passion every practice, I exemplified leadership that coaches have called invaluable and our younger talent fed off of. Secondly, I wanted to cement my physical downhill running identity by increasing yards after contact. My toughness finishing runs was recognized by a 1st Team All-Conference selection. Finally, adding flexibility in packages, I expanded my role and became a true dual threat out of the backfield. This showcased the polish and dexterity I hope to contribute in multiple facets for NFL squads. Through fulfilling each goal, I believe I boosted my stock and readiness substantially my senior year.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches and teammates would describe me as an enthusiastic leader committed to our squad’s collective success above my personal glory. Whether it’s throwing key blocks, doing the little things on special teams, or amping up guys on the sideline, I take pride in making our program stronger. Specifically, as one of the senior voices in the locker room, my teammates have often shared how uplifting my work ethic and positive mindset are, especially when adversity strikes. I emphasize regularly that by building each other up and focusing only on the next opportunity — not what we can’t control — we put ourselves in the best position to win. Likewise, coaches have called me one of the most coachable and adaptable players they’ve ever worked with. I’m always eager for constructive feedback on improving little aspects of my game while volunteering enthusiastically wherever the staff feels I can positively contribute that week. Ultimately, stats will convey a sliver of any player’s impact. My value also lies in the culture and connections I strive to foster daily within our program. I want teammates and coaches to know I’ll give my all fighting for them on Saturdays and throughout the weeks preparing. By pouring my heart into our team, individual honors inevitably follow.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When analyzing my footage, I’m zeroed in on spots where I can elevate both my physical and mental performance. I scout myself as if I were gameplanning for a tough opponent. First, I examine footwork – are there instances where I could have set up blocks or cut backs more sharply with crisper steps? That split-second makes a massive difference in hitting the right hole. I also assess what situations may have called for more patience rather than relying solely on instinct. Most importantly, I search for the root reasons behind any mental miscues, whether missed assignments in pass protection or going down easier on first contact when I had momentum. I take pride in consistent physicality, so correcting areas where that slipped is vital. By scrutinizing areas needing polish, especially technique and vision, I’m confident I will unlock more of my potential. I know I have talent that jumps off the tape. Combining that natural ability with smart self-critique studying film will have me prepped to excel against NFL-caliber defenses. Taking this proactive analysis approach fuels my motivation while making me love this game even more.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
A few things that set me apart from other prospects include the following, starting with me being the complete package at running back with game-changing versatility that provides elite production and roster flexibility through my use on special teams. My burst and elusiveness as a runner is matched only by my rare tackle-breaking skills that convert short yardage situations. I’m also an advanced receiver out of the backfield with soft hands and crisp route-running to mismatches against linebackers and safeties downfield. Moreover, I offer explosive kick returning and reliable long snapping. Not only can I extend drives and reach the end zone, I also excel protecting the punter, quarterback, and providing field position through my coverage ability on punt and other teams like kickoff. My well-rounded offensive and special teams skillset makes me a constant threat dictating matchups.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
This offseason, I am laser focused on getting bigger, faster, and stronger to prepare myself for the NFL. My training regimen will focus on improving the specific on-field attributes professional scouts want to see – increasing power, acceleration, change-of-direction speed, and above all, functional football strength. I’ll be working closely with EForce, the premier athletic performance facility known for training NFL standouts like Brandin Cooks and Cooper Kupp. Their programs are tailored to boost on-field productivity by mimicking movements and stresses required on game days. By targeting muscle groups and energy systems crucial for football, I’ll get better at maintaining speed and power even late into the fourth quarter. Of course, training is only half the battle. I will diligently work to further increase my football IQ – breaking down film, learning schemes, and mastering playbooks and calls. Beyond physical tools, being a cerebral, disciplined player with strong fundamentals separates the good from great. Mastering the mental edge will help my physical gifts fully translate.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
As a running back prospect, I offer a rare blend of game-changing physical talents and intangibles that make me stand out as a leader on and off the field. Specifically, my tackle-breaking ability coupled with soft hands and advanced route running makes me a constant threat in any offensive scheme. My rare contact balance and lower body torque allows me to fight through arm tackles, while my burst once I see daylight means any broken play can go for six points. Just as importantly, I take pride in excellent pass protection and ball security – critical for any three-down NFL back expected to make an impact beyond rushing stats. Beyond pure athleticism, I set myself apart by the work ethic and competitive drive I bring into the weight room, film room, locker room, and community events. I’m constantly working on my craft and finding ways to gain an edge over my competition. I strive to lead by example for my teammates, elevate the performance of everyone around me, and represent my future organization as a high character member of the community. The complete package I offer – with explosive running, receiving, and return production between the sidelines and exceptional intangibles inside locker room and beyond – will translate into exciting plays and crucial wins for whichever franchise invests in me on draft day. My versatile skillset makes me ready to excel in the NFL from year one.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I’m the complete offensive package that will instantly energize your backfield and elevate your team into a Super Bowl contender. You aren’t just getting an elite rushing threat who refuses to go down on first contact – you’re investing in a versatile weapon poised to deliver significant yards both on the ground and through the air. My tackle-breaking power sets up lethal play-action, while my advanced route running and soft hands create constant mismatches against linebackers. And I make game-changing contributions on special teams too with explosive returning and reliable long snapping with coverage after the snap. Simply put, I’m a versatile playmaker ready to impose my will on defenses by dictating matchups and tempo. I promise to deliver highlights, hidden yards, and crucial wins from my very first snap.