Interview: 2021 California Talent Frankie Washington is That Versatile Collegiate Defensive Back
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Spread offenses have put the pressure on college football programs to find versatile defensive backs that can cover the boundary and field one-on-one, quick-on-quick inside receivers, and even running backs and tight ends going underneath or up the seam. Throughout the 2019 season, Chaminade Prep (West Hills, CA) standout defensive back Frankie Washington earned All-Mission League honors after being that versatile presence on the Eagles roster playing corner and free safety as needed. The 5-11, 170-pound, talent responded to the call ending the campaign with 50 stops, 37 solo, with a pick, and 11 passes broken up.
Seven offers have come Washington’s way, but the total is not to the extent of abilities showcased. In first look interview, Washington headed over to the RNG Lab for detailed confab.
Interview
Frankie, last season you were hyperactive in the Eagles secondary lining up at corner and free safety. When your junior season wrapped, what were the attributes to your game that were most prominent?
I think the biggest strengths were my tenacity. We had people breaking away, and I was chasing them down saving touchdowns giving our defense a second chance.
What were some of the coverages you guys were executing?
Last year we were mainly in Cover 2 and 3. Sometimes we would disguise our coverage with our cornerback to the strong side to confuse the offense.
Going into the offseason, what have you been working on with the fundamentals of your game as a defensive back?
The biggest thing has been my footwork and being more comfortable in press coverage. With this extra time, our coach has drilled us on the basics. We’ve worked on everything from our backpedal, steps in our shuffle, and in press, not opening up the gate. I am grateful we’ve gone back to basics working over everything.
What are some of the workouts you’ve been doing to increase your speed and agility?
My main workouts are wind sprints with my father and running the hills in Woodland Hills. I’ve been doing cone drills and the 5-10-5 at the park. Sometimes I wear ankle weights to provide more resistance when I run.
Did you get to post a 40-yard dash this offseason?
Not official, but did run a 4.5 hand-timed.
Once the 2020 season gets going, what positions are you anticipating playing?
This year I will be playing corner, safety in some packages, and some outside linebacker. It all depends on the formations of the offense.
How have you continued to work on your skills this offseason separate from team organized practices?
The biggest thing is working out by myself. Most of my friends are my teammates, so we train and workout together. I have also been doing yoga with my mom in the morning.
How has working around the virus brought the team closer together?
It is unfortunate that we are having this pandemic. I am feeling like I am finally understanding everything. Being with my teammates, not knowing if we will have a season, if we get to play, it will be a blessing and something spectacular. Never have I been closer to the guys on the team. We have amazing team chemistry, and I am a part of that. I am a leader on the team, and it makes me proud to be an Eagle seeing how well we have all come together.
Do you compete in any other varsity sports with Chaminade?
I run track.
Which events?
The 100, relays, 200, and the 400.
What is your top time in the 100?
My top time in the 100 is an 11.2 (2018). That is my PR. I PR-ed again last year, but our season ended (virus) before I could top it once the season got going. 2019 was going to be a big year for me. I’m expecting to have a track season this year. I am excited to run a sub-11 time in the 100.
Let’s get into recruiting. How many offers are you holding?
Seven.
Which schools are showing interest?
Western Colorado and Montana State are showing interest.
Have you taken any recent visits?
Yes, I took one to Rocky Mountain College.
How did the Rocky Mountain College visit go?
It was a really good experience. I met with the coaches and saw their facilities. I was excited to be able to visit. The coaches had great energy, I felt like they really wanted me there. That was eye opening.
What did you see and do? Where you able to see the dorms?
We were not able to see the dorms because of the virus. But I saw the campus, weight room, locker room, and met with all the coaches. We went out to eat and went bowling; it was a lot of fun.
Are there any upcoming visits you may take football or academic?
I may possibly take an unofficial to Iowa State. I have been accepted there on academics.
As a senior going through an abnormal process, what is your approach to National Signing Day?
Being a senior not knowing if we will have a season, it puts you in an unexpected situation. For me, I am just looking forward to getting a good opportunity for me and my family. I am not sure how everything will play out. I am looking for a good education at a good football program that is in a good area. Those three areas are the most important to me. When I get that green light, I will be there.
Frankie, it was great getting time with you today. Wishing you and the Eagles continued success this offseason preparing for what sounds like a team ready to ball out.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: Washington family; Frankie Washington