The 2026 college football landscape is already buzzing after CBS Sports analyst Cody Nagel highlighted Maryland quarterback Malik Washington as the most elusive quarterback heading into the upcoming season. The sophomore's rapid ascent from a standout freshman year has turned heads across the sport.
A freshman campaign that rewrote the record books
Washington threw for 2,963 yards and 17 touchdowns while completing 273 passes in just 12 starts. He also added 9 interceptions, but the numbers that truly set him apart were his efficiency and durability. The quarterback logged 200 or more passing yards in 11 of his 12 games, underscoring his consistency.
His 93.8% sack‑avoidance rate ranked second among qualified quarterbacks in the study, reflecting poise under pressure and a strong offensive line. That figure placed him among the most protected passers in the nation despite facing tough defenses.
Washington also set Maryland records for the most passing yards by a freshman quarterback in a single season and the most rushing yards by a freshman quarterback in a single game. Those achievements helped him finish top‑ten in the Big Ten for total yards, passing yards, passing touchdowns and total touchdowns.
From backup to undisputed starter
After beating out UCLA transfer Justyn Martin for the starting role, Washington never relinquished the position, cementing his status as the Terrapins' clear leader. His performance earned him the No. 45 spot on Sports Illustrated's list of returning quarterbacks nationwide.
The road ahead will test his mettle. Maryland's 2026 schedule features marquee matchups against traditional powerhouses such as Ohio State, Penn State, USC, Illinois and UCLA, promising a rigorous test of Washington's abilities.