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Washington Speedster John Ross Became a Breakout Star Because of Injuries

Washington junior receiver John Ross III was back in his hometown of Long Beach, California, this summer when he met his boyhood idol, DeSean Jackson.

The Washington Redskins receiver is also a Long Beach native, and Ross, a projected first-round pick, is often compared to Jackson. Both are under 6’0” and electric once the football is in their hands because of their speed. The defining play of Ross’ breakout junior season—he’s tied for second nationally with 17 touchdowns—came against Jackson’s alma mater, the Cal Bears, and is reminiscent of the zig-zag wizardry Jackson displayed early in his career.