Why Washington's Nickname Fits

There haven’t been a ton of bright spots for the Miami Dolphins this season, but one of them is all-purpose playmaker Malik Washington. 

The Dolphins selected Washington in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL draft because of his fit in the team’s offense, and his ability to win with the ball in his hands. As a rookie, Washington got most of his touches as a returner and receiver. 

He caught 26 passes for 233 yards and had 564 total return yards between kicks and punts. However, he’s added a new wrinkle to his game this season: running back. 

Washington has carried the ball six times for 52 yards this season, eclipsing his total in both categories from all of last season. His role and play style have earned him a new nickname from Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. 

“He actually calls me ‘Maleebo’ every now and then. I don’t like it,” Washington said jokingly. “I’ve watched some Deebo Samuel tape. He’s probably one of the best at just going into the backfield and making plays happen, so he’s been a huge guy I’ve looked up to as far as what he does in the run game and how versatile he is, kick returns, you saw he had a big one this past weekend.

“He’s playing great, and I kind of want to, not necessarily follow in those footsteps, but kind of create my own game in that sense and be as versatile.”

Comparing Washington to Deebo probably isn’t fair from a career-success point of view since Washington’s career is just starting, but his usage and overall play style are incredibly similar. 

What Washington Does for the Running Game 

It’s only been six carries, but Washington’s ability to add an extra element to the running game is valuable for the Dolphins. He’s averaging 8.7 yards per carry, and three of them have gone for first downs. 

“We all have to jell together, we all have to make each other work," Washington said about his role in the running game. “Whether that’s incorporating me in different spots so we can get somebody else open or allowing me to get the ball, I think it all just opens up our offense. It makes every defense have to key many different things, many different people, so ultimately, it’s going to help us score points.”

Several of Washington’s carries are manufactured touches (screens, reverses, etc) and not straight handoffs. Defenses have to be on alert when he’s motioning into the backfield or lined up there from the start.