Malik Washington Named to 2026 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Watch List
9/10/2026 11:54:00 AM | Football
COLLEGE PARK, MD -- Maryland sophomore quarterback Malik Washington has been named to the 2026 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Watch List, the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year committee announced Thursday. The honor is presented annually to the FBS college football player who has demonstrated a record of leadership by exhibiting exceptional courage, integrity and sportsmanship both on and off the field.
Washington, a 6-foot-5, 231-pound standout from Glen Burnie, Maryland, earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors twice during his freshman campaign while setting a Maryland freshman single-season record with 2,963 passing yards. While Washington has made his mark on the field, the local standout's impact is equally meaningful throughout his community.
Washington hosts the Malik Washington Free Youth Football Camp, providing children in the local community with an opportunity to learn the game of football, develop their skills and stay active. After holding the camp at his former high school, Washington brought the event to Under Armour Stadium in 2026.
Washington is also an active participant in local reading literacy initiatives, visiting multiple elementary schools throughout the DMV area to read to students.
Over the past two years, Washington has also participated in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, Uplifting Athletes and the Beautiful Lives Project. Through his involvement with these organizations in both 2025 and 2026, Washington has helped provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to play, experience and learn the game of football.
The award honors the type of exemplary character and commitment to community, family and teammates demonstrated by Jason Witten, the 2012 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year and one of the most prominent role models in the game.
