Introducing Elliot Washington II: Venice鈥檚 four-star recruit
VENICE, Fla. — When you think about high school football in Florida, a few standout institutions likely come to mind: IMG Academy, St. Thomas Aquinas, Cardinal Gibbons, Miami Central, etc. Yet, there鈥檚 one school in particular that鈥檚 been steadily climbing up the FHSAA ladder for the last several years, and that鈥檚 Venice High School.
Despite taking home the state championship in 2017 and finishing with winning records the following three seasons, it鈥檚 this year鈥檚 Indians squad that seems to have everyone captivated. This can be largely attributed to a top-ranked defense playing at an elite level, led by their stud safety, Elliot Washington II.
Washington first emerged as a freshman in 2019, earning six starts in just his first year of varsity play in which he recorded 31 tackles, four pass breakups and one interception. Following his positive start with Venice in 2019, he further continued his success into his sophomore season, totaling 51 tackles, five pass breakups and two interceptions, helping to lead the Indians to a 10-4 record, as well as a deep run in the Florida 7A state playoffs.
His past few years with the team have prepared him to take on a much bigger role in the secondary this season, where he has helped carry Venice to an impressive 12-1 record. He鈥檚 leading the way with 50 tackles, four pass breakups and a career-high four interceptions, as well as yet another deep run in the Florida 8A state playoffs.
This streak could very well be capped off with a state championship in the coming weeks.
Beyond football, Washington has also found success as a dual-sport athlete with Venice鈥檚 track team, in which he ran a 10.84 in the 100-meter dash, and 24.09 in the 200 as a sophomore.
Over the past three seasons, the Venice, Florida product has emerged as one of the most versatile athletes in the entire country. He is flying all over the field on defense and special teams, making his presence known each and every Friday night.
So, going into college, he should pose a legitimate threat for whomever he opts to play for as a speedy, versatile and aggressive-minded defender who can play any position in the secondary.
According to the industry-generated 247Sports Composite Player Rankings, the 4-star recruit ranks as the 26th best safety in the 2023 class and the 6th best safety in the state of Florida. He was also a 2023 Under Armour All-America selection and is currently listed in ESPN鈥檚 junior 300, which is composed of the top recruits in the country for the 2023 cycle.
On a team loaded with Division I talent, Washington has arguably become the most sought-after player for the Indians with more than 20 offers dropped as of last spring. Just a few weeks ago (Nov. 17), Washington removed some mystery from the equation by tweeting out his official top five, naming Alabama, Ohio State, Penn State, Georgia and Michigan State as the clear frontrunners to reel in the highly touted safety.
AGTG 馃檹馃徑
— Elliot Washington II (@E_WashingtonII)
The two powerhouse SEC programs, Alabama and Georgia, stand out immediately as both are high on the young player鈥檚 radar and are renowned for developing elite young talent. Plus, Washington spoke about his exuberance to receive an offer from, and potentially play for. the Crimson Tide in 2023.
鈥淚 found out after finishing my workout with coach (Nick) Saban and coach (Jay) Valai,鈥� he . 鈥淚 felt super excited to earn the offer from Coach Saban and Alabama. It was a great feeling. I mean it鈥檚 Alabama. They鈥檙e National Champions and always have a chance each year. I want to be a part of a winning program if possible.鈥�
That last line in particular might have some of the aforementioned programs worried, as the only other team that鈥檚 come close to winning a national championship is Ohio State, who took home the CFB throne back in 2014 with Urban Meyer under the helm.
However, Elliot squashed all the hype a few weeks back when he further explained his reasoning for keeping schools like Michigan State in the mix.
鈥淢SU has recruited me from day one,鈥� he . 鈥淐oach Barnett has been consistent since my offer. 鈥� After visiting this summer, meeting Coach Tucker and staff was a good experience. Coach Tucker and Barnett seem to be real coaches that can relate with the players.鈥�
While it鈥檚 truly unknown where Washington will end up in 2023, one thing鈥檚 for certain. Regardless of where he decides to play, that team will be receiving one of the best defensive backs in the nation and should possess one of the deadliest secondaries in college football.
This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.