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The Miami Dolphins’ offensive arsenal is packed with talent, and it just got even more dangerous with their latest draft pick. Heading into the 2024 NFL season, head coach Mike McDaniel can call on an impressive lineup including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, the speedy duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, the experienced Odell Beckham Jr., and dynamic running backs Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane. This ensemble has established the Dolphins as one of the top offenses in the league.
In the 2023 season, Miami’s prowess was evident as they ranked second in the NFL in passing yards with 4,698, behind only the Minnesota Vikings. They also placed high in other key receiving categories: fourth in air yards (2,423), third in yards after the catch (2,292), and fourth in receiving touchdowns (30). However, they lagged in yards after first contact, where they were 22nd with 713 yards—compared to the leading San Francisco 49ers who posted 1,157 yards in this metric.
Enter Malik Washington, the Dolphins’ sixth-round pick from the University of Virginia. Listed at 5-foot-8 and weighing 194 pounds, Washington is a receiver with statistics that promise to address Miami’s shortfall in after-contact performance. During his final college season, he nabbed 110 receptions from 122 targets, amassing 1,426 yards—of which 339 were after contact, the highest among his draft class.
Washington, renowned for his ability to create separation and extend plays, seems to bring a hybrid vigor, blending wide receiver speed with running back toughness. Last season, he not only tallied impressive yards but also forced 22 missed tackles, an indicator of his ability to add the much-needed ‘yards after contact’ for the Dolphins.
His integration into Miami’s offense may be gradual. The Dolphins predominantly utilized two-receiver formations last season, which might limit Washington’s field time initially. However, his talents could be particularly valuable on third downs, where Miami tends to expand to three-receiver sets.
Coach McDaniel has acknowledged the high expectations that come along with such a talent-rich roster, especially in challenging a rookie like Washington to earn his spot among established stars. Washington himself seems ready to embrace these challenges with his characteristic determination and toughness, essential traits for thriving amidst the NFL’s physical demands.
As the Dolphins continue to refine their offensive tactics, Washington’s particular skill set could prove to be a game-changer in their quest for deeper playoff runs in the 2024 season.