South Carolina State Standout Shines Brightest at East-West Shrine Bowl

The East-West Shrine Bowl has long been one of the most prestigious stages for NFL Draft prospects, and this year, an HBCU star has stolen the spotlight. Jarod Washington, a defensive back from South Carolina State University, has proven himself as the fastest player at the 2026 Shrine Bowl, cementing his status as an elite talent emerging from the HBCU community.

According to Zebra MotionWorks performance tracking data, Washington reached a top speed of 21.33 miles per hour during practice sessions in Frisco, Texas, leading all other participants from schools such as LSU, Toledo, NC State, and Texas A&M. This remarkable feat not only showcases Washington's raw athleticism but also underscores the caliber of talent that HBCU football programs continue to produce.

Washington's performance at the Shrine Bowl is a testament to his well-rounded defensive prowess. The senior from Fredericksburg, Virginia, was named the 2025 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year and earned First Team All-MEAC honors, in addition to being recognized as an FCS All-American. His standout season included a nation-leading 20 pass breakups and two interceptions, as well as two defensive touchdowns.

The road to the Shrine Bowl has been paved with success for Washington.

"NFL teams value defensive backs who can run, react, and close space quickly. Washington's Shrine Bowl tracking numbers confirm he can do all three at a high level."

As the East-West Shrine Bowl approaches, Jarod Washington enters the game with a distinction no other player can claim: the fastest verified top speed recorded during Shrine Bowl week. This achievement not only highlights Washington's individual excellence but also serves as a powerful statement about the depth and quality of talent within the HBCU football community.

Why This Story Matters to the HBCU Community

The success of Jarod Washington at the East-West Shrine Bowl is a source of immense pride for the HBCU community. It serves as a powerful reminder that the rich tradition of HBCU football continues to produce elite-level talent that can compete and thrive on the national stage. Washington's blazing speed and all-around defensive prowess demonstrate that HBCU players possess the skills and abilities to excel at the highest levels of the sport.

This story is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of HBCU student-athletes, as well as the coaching staffs and programs that cultivate their talents. It offers a platform to showcase the incredible depth of talent within the HBCU football landscape, challenging the misconceptions and biases that have often overlooked these institutions. As Jarod Washington continues to make his mark at the Shrine Bowl, the HBCU community can take pride in his achievements and the broader significance they hold for the future of HBCU athletics.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.