Why is Denzel Boston’s draft stock falling? Reason for Washington WR’s stunning slide out of Round 1 explored

Denzel Boston’s name was surprisingly not called out on Day 1 of the 2026 NFL draft on Thursday. The Washington wideout was projected as a Round 1 pick, but it appears that he has to wait longer than expected to be taken off the board.

Nonetheless, some have been eager to learn about Boston’s slide and the reasons behind it. Here, we try to explore those reasons.

3 reasons behind Denzel Boston’s falling draft stock

#1. Denzel Boston did not take part in 40-yard dash at combine

Boston took part in some drills at the NFL Combine earlier this year. However, the Washington receiver limited his participation, skipping the 40-yard dash.

For wideouts, the 40-yard dash is considered imperative, and Boston’s choice not to put up a time at the event could be one of the main reasons why he fell out of Round 1. The Huskies receiver did, however, post a 4.20-second short shuttle.

#2. Quality of wideouts in Round 1

Another reason for Boston’s falling stock could be the quality of wideouts that were picked in the first round on Thursday. A total of five receivers: Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson, Makai Lemon, KC Concepcion and Omar Cooper Jr. were taken on Day 1 of the draft.

Boston played his entire four-year collegiate career at Washington. He recorded 882 yards and 11 touchdowns on 62 receptions in his final year. While Boston scored touchdowns, his overall output wasn’t elite.

#3. Doubts about being a success in the NFL

While Boston became an important offensive player for Washington in his final two years at the program, the NFL is a different level of intensity. Moreover, many teams might not have wanted to risk a Round 1 pick on the UW receiver.

While there is no guarantee for success, some prospects tend to fit the requirements of a team. It remains to be seen if Boston can land a team on Day 2 of the draft on Friday.

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