Chauncey Washington RB 6'1 220lbs USC Jr.

QB | RB | WR | OL | DL | LB | DB

Chauncey Washington is one of the unknown prospects for the 2007 NFL Draft, but people will soon begin to hear his name. He came to USC in the same class as Reggie Bush and LenDale White. When the trio first hit the field in the fall of 2003, Washington was the first freshman back to make an impact. However, he was injured early on that season, and ended up having to redshirt, while Bush and White took off and never looked back. Washington ended his freshman campaign with 19 carries for 65 yards, but the bulk of that was with an ankle injury that was later revealed to be a stress fracture. The following two seasons at USC, Washington had academic problems and was ineligible to play with the team during the season.

Washington has the all around package to be a standout running back. He has excellent size and power, but also has the speed and agility to run away from defenders. He is a slasher that will run between the tackles and fight for the tough yardage, but can make a quick cut and break it outside for a long run. Washington also has the receiving skills to be a factor out of the backfield. He’s drawn praise every season from USC coaches for his performances in practice sessions.

The biggest problem with Washington is his lack of experience. The game film is limited, even though he has been a consistent standout in USC practices for three seasons. Despite his limited success as a freshman, there’s no telling how all that talent will translate to the field. His academic issues are also an issue. It causes doubt around his desire and ability to put in the necessary work to get his job done as a student-athlete.

Chauncey Washington is a player to watch. He was given the starting job at SC despite a slew of talented backs already in tow. His skills are a combination of the “Thunder and Lightning” that White and Bush brought, so he should see the field a lot, in many different situations. Solely on talent, Washington has the ability to be as good as any back in this draft, outside of Adrian Peterson.