5 underrated NFL rookies making a lot of noise early in training camp

Underrated NFL rookie no. 5: Montrell Washington, WR, Broncos

The Denver Broncos didn’t have a pick in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and they didn’t pick at all until no. 64 overall at the end of round two.

Even without any really high selections, general manager George Paton and his staff managed to find players that could have a huge impact in year one, including the team’s top picks in edge rusher Nik Bonitto and tight end Greg Dulcich.

On Day 3 of the 2022 NFL Draft, Paton and company used a fifth-round pick on little-known Samford wide receiver/return man Montrell Washington.

Washington flashed big-play ability all throughout his collegiate career at Samford, but never more so than when he was a one-man show against the Florida Gators last season.

Washington is out there at Denver Broncos training camp not only earning his way as the team’s top return man, but into the Russell Wilson circle of trust.

https://twitter.com/ZacStevensDNVR/status/1554639866389860352

The Denver Broncos sadly just lost Tim Patrick for the entire 2022 season. That didn’t exactly pave the way for a starting role for Washington, but it certainly paves the way for him to have a much bigger role in 2022 than anticipated.

Washington has made more plays at the receiver position in Broncos camp than anyone really expected.

As a fifth-round pick from a smaller school, nobody quite knew what to expect from Washington but he’s passing every test so far with flying colors.

At this point, Washington is a player to certainly be keeping an eye on as he develops chemistry with Russell Wilson and earns the favor of the Broncos coaching staff.

Head coach Nathaniel Hackett has applauded Washington on multiple occasions for his stellar work ethic and if he has a great understanding of the playbook by the time the regular season rolls around, his role in 2022 is going to be substantial.