Nahshon Wright – Rising NFL Cornerback with Talent and Determination
Introduction:
In the high-stakes world of the National Football League (NFL), only the most dedicated and talented athletes succeed. One such rising star is Nahshon Wright, a cornerback whose unique combination of size, agility, and work ethic has drawn attention from fans, coaches, and analysts alike. Born with a natural athletic gift and driven by a deep passion for the game, Wright’s journey from humble beginnings to the professional field is both inspiring and impressive.
This article offers a comprehensive look at Nahshon Wright’s background, career highlights, and what makes him a promising figure in American football today.
Early Life and Background
Hometown and Family Roots
Nahshon Wright was born on September 23, 1998, in Hayward, California. He grew up in a sports-oriented family, where both competitive drive and team spirit were encouraged from a young age. His younger brother, Rejzohn Wright, is also a talented football player, showcasing the athletic potential that runs in the family.
Wright attended James Logan High School in Union City, California, where he first made waves as a standout athlete in football. However, he wasn’t initially a top-ranked prospect, and his journey to success wasn’t a straightforward one.
College Career at Oregon State
- Start at Laney College
Before making his mark at Oregon State, Wright started his college career at Laney College, a junior college in Oakland, California. This detour turned out to be a defining period for Wright. It was at Laney where he sharpened his skills, matured as a player, and gained attention from Division I programs. - Transfer to Oregon State
Wright transferred to Oregon State University in 2019, joining the Beavers’ football program as a cornerback. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 183 pounds, his rare height and reach immediately set him apart from traditional defensive backs.
During his time with Oregon State (2019–2020), Wright made significant contributions on the field.
2019 Season: 34 total tackles, 3 interceptions, and 1 touchdown
2020 Season: 30 total tackles and 2 interceptions in a shortened season due to the pandemic
Wright’s impressive performances caught the eye of NFL scouts, thanks to his length, physicality, and ball-hawking abilities.
NFL Draft and Selection by the Dallas Cowboys
In the 2021 NFL Draft, Nahshon Wright was selected in the third round with the 99th overall pick by the Dallas Cowboys. While his selection surprised some analysts, the Cowboys saw potential in his unique physical traits and skillset.
Wright became part of a talented defensive unit, and he began working under the guidance of defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who was known for developing lengthy and versatile cornerbacks—a system that suited Wright perfectly.
NFL Career: Progress and Development
Rookie Season (2021)
Wright’s first season in the NFL was a learning experience. While he did not start many games, he contributed on special teams and was used in specific defensive packages. His size helped him in one-on-one matchups, especially in press coverage, and he began adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL.
Key stats from his rookie year include:
- 13 total tackles
- 1 fumble recovery
- Multiple special teams snaps
Growth in Subsequent Seasons
In the 2022 and 2023 seasons, Wright saw more playing time, both on defense and special teams. Though not yet a full-time starter, his game showed steady improvement:
- Better footwork and hip flexibility
- Improved play recognition and tackling ability
- Enhanced contributions in zone and man coverage schemes
He continued to provide solid depth at the cornerback position while working hard in practices and offseason camps to earn a bigger role in the defensive rotation.
Player Profile and Strengths:
- Physical Attributes
Height: 6’4
Weight: 183 lbs
Wingspan: Above average for a cornerback
Speed: Fast enough to cover downfield threats, though not elite-level speed - Key Strengths
Length and Reach: His height and long arms allow him to disrupt passes and compete effectively against tall receivers.
Football IQ: Wright is a student of the game, known for studying film and improving his decision-making on the field.
Press Coverage Skills: His physical style allows him to jam receivers at the line and redirect routes.
Work Ethic: Coaches and teammates often speak highly of Wright’s discipline, dedication, and coachability.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement:
Like many young players, Nahshon Wright faces a few hurdles on his path to becoming a consistent starter:
- Speed and Agility: While tall and strong, he must continue to improve his quickness, especially in covering faster slot receivers.
- Consistency: Reducing mental errors and maintaining performance across all quarters is key to securing a starting role.
- Injury Management: Staying healthy and building durability will be important for long-term success.
Family Influence and Off-Field Personality:
Wright comes from a close-knit family and often credits his parents and siblings for their support throughout his football journey. His younger brother, Rejzohn Wright, followed in his footsteps and also played for Oregon State, receiving national attention in the Netflix series Last Chance U: Laney.
Off the field, Nahshon is known for being humble, grounded, and focused. He actively participates in community events and uses his platform to inspire youth in his hometown and beyond.
Future Outlook:
As of the 2025 NFL season, Nahshon Wright is still part of the Dallas Cowboys, a team with playoff aspirations and a strong defense. With several years of professional experience and continuous growth, Wright is poised to take on a bigger role.
If he continues on his current trajectory—refining his technique and building on his strengths—he could develop into a reliable starting cornerback or a valuable rotational player in the NFL for years to come.
Conclusion:
Nahshon Wright’s story is one of persistence, adaptability, and potential. From junior college to the big stage of the NFL, his journey proves that talent combined with hard work can lead to great opportunities. While he may not yet be a household name, Wright is steadily carving out his place in the league.
Fans of the Dallas Cowboys and football enthusiasts should keep an eye on Nahshon Wright in the coming seasons. His blend of size, intelligence, and determination makes him a player worth watching.