Boone back taking in Spring Practices

In a deep year for running backs in the state of Florida, one of the best is Orlando Boone speedster James Washington. Washington, who led his team to the 6A State Championship Game last fall is still waiting on his first offer but should end up with plenty of opportunities. This Saturday, he took in the Auburn Spring Game.

"This weekend I went to Auburn's A-Day," Washington said. "I got a chance to talk to Coach Gran, Coach Price and Coach Franklin. Coach Gran wants me to come to their football camp over the summer. He said that he knows I can run the ball and they want to see if I can catch at their camp."

With the new offense under Coach Franklin, Washington realizes that catching the ball will be of greater emphasis so he looks forward to showcasing his skills as well as working with the coaching staff.

"This year, the running backs are going to be doing a lot more catching in this new offense," he said. "At the game I saw first hand how the running backs warm up warm up and get ready for a game. They used the spread and their old formations. The running back has to be fast to run the spread the right way. I believe I can make an impact in Auburn's offense."

Washington got a chance to take a look at Auburn outside of the football field as well and was impressed all the way through.

"After meeting all the coaches, a Tigerette took me and my family on a tour of the facility," he said. "They have an amazing athletic department filled with a large weight room, and study rooms overseeing three practice fields. Auburn grows their own type of grass that's only found on their practice and game field."

The whole experience left Auburn in a high standing among Washington's favorites, so much so that he already has plans on an official visit.

"Auburn is one of my top schools," he said. "I'm planning to take my official visit on Sept. 20 against LSU."

Along with Auburn, Washington also took a recent trip to the University of Florida to look in on the Gators' Spring Practice.

He was keeping a close eye on the evolution of the Florida rushing attack.

"I went to see my ex-teammate Jeremy Brown and how the offense was coming along with the running game," he said. "I think JB is adjusting to the speed of college quickly. I was impressed with how they are trying to develop a strong running game to go with their air attack."

Washington closed practice with a visit with Urban Meyer and a picture with Tim Tebow in The Swamp.He has plans to make another college trip when he visits FAU on April 19.