NFL preseason grades: Top rookie performances in week two

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STILLWATER, OK – NOVEMBER 04: Wide receiver James Washington #28 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys warms up before the game against the Oklahoma Sooners at Boone Pickens Stadium on November 4, 2017 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Oklahoma defeated Oklahoma State 62-52. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images) /

James Washington, WR

The Pittsburgh Steelers seem to be able to evaluate wide receivers coming out of college better than any other NFL team right now.

James Washington out of Oklahoma State is the latest example of that.

Washington was phenomenal at Oklahoma State and was often the best player on the field at the 2018 Senior Bowl, yet he fell to the bottom of the second round.

How does that happen?

Look at the plays he’s making:

https://twitter.com/steelers/status/1030276510295318529

Washington — in two preseason games — has seven receptions for 158 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

He’s so much better than his draft status indicates and he wins in a variety of ways.

Obviously, at Oklahoma State, he proved himself to be one of the best downfield ‘winners’ in the country, and also showed he’s got good speed, quickness, and vision after the catch.

He’s a big-time playmaker and the Steelers appear to have another gem on their hands.

Grade: A+

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