Washington Named National Defensive Player of Week
Clemson cornerback Elliot Washington II earned the honor after a two-interception performance in the Tigers' 36-24 win at Florida State.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Football
Clemson senior cornerback Elliot Washington II was named national Defensive Player of the Week for the Shriners Children's East-West Bowl. He recorded two tackles, two interceptions, and a pass breakup in Clemson's 36-24 win at Florida State.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights Washington's standout season, in which he has started all eight games for the Tigers. His performance also gives Clemson a notable individual honor during a stretch that includes a road trip to Syracuse this weekend.
Washington has recorded 25 total tackles, a forced fumble, five pass breakups, and five interceptions this season, tied for the FBS lead. The extraction does not indicate how these totals compare with other Clemson defensive backs in recent seasons.
The players
Elliot Washington II
Washington is a senior cornerback at Clemson who transferred after three seasons at Penn State and was a four-star prospect in the 2023 recruiting class out of Venice (Fla.) High School.
The details
Washington earned the award based on his two-interception performance in Clemson's 36-24 win at Florida State. He had also recorded two interceptions at Cal earlier this season, earning ACC Defensive Back of the Week honors.
Timeline
Clemson defeated Florida State 36-24 last Saturday, with Washington recording two interceptions.
Clemson plays a road game at Syracuse this Saturday.
Season Trajectory
Washington's two multi-interception games make him the first Clemson player since DeAndre McDaniel in 2009 to accomplish that in a single season, placing him in rare company in the program's defensive history. His five interceptions, tied for the FBS lead, position Clemson's secondary as a notable force in the conference race.
Washington's five interceptions lead the FBS, making him a notable target for fantasy and DFS players tracking defensive production. Clemson's road trip to Syracuse this weekend gives fans a chance to see whether his ball-hawking form continues.
The takeaway
Washington's breakout season shows how a transfer can rapidly become a conference-leading playmaker. Following his next few games will reveal whether his interception pace is sustainable.
Further reading
Explore more Clemson Football coverage for context on the Tigers' season.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Clemson Insider.
