Washington Football Spring Game 2017: 5 things to watch for

1. Jake Browning’s health

Jake Browning looked like a Heisman Trophy candidate during the 2016 season. He nearly had 3,500 yards and 43 passing touchdowns, leading Washington’s offense. His play somewhat tailed off, however, as the year ended. This included two games of a sub-50 percent completion percentage and a handful of multi-interception games. It didn’t look like the Browning of old, and with good reason.

Near the tail-end of 2016, Browning dealt with a right shoulder injury, which may have led to these poor statistics. He didn’t look like the efficient quarterback that was seen through the first eight games, and instead, became limited heading into the College Football Playoff. Surgery was done on his shoulder in January to clear up the issues.

If Washington wants to be extra cautious, they won’t play Browning at all during the spring game. He has been a participant in practice, according to the Seattle Times. However, that was only handoffs. Maybe if the Folsom, CA native appears, he’ll do this again, just to get into some in-game action. It may not mean much, but it’s better than sitting on the sidelines — if he’s healthy.

Next: Best college quarterback born in every state

If the staff deems Browning fit enough to throw, then maybe we see him hit a few short passes and quick screens to the skill-position players. It’s a safe route, and keeps his arm active, even if it won’t mean much. Success in this will give Washington fans hope that Browning can return to his early 2016 self, which could be huge for their Pac-12 Championship chances for a second straight year.