Celebrating Chase
City hosts pre-draft party for former Wash High standout
It was all smiles for Washington High School graduate and 2026 NFL Draft prospect Chase Mitchell on Wednesday afternoon as more than 100 family, friends and former teammates showed up for a pre-draft celebration in downtown Washington.
The former Vanderbilt Commodores offensive lineman is projected to be selected in the sixth or seventh round of the draft in Pittsburgh, which kicks-off on Thursday evening.
“I’m positive right now. I know whatever plan is God’s plan is the right plan,” he said.
Mitchell, who previously described himself to the Observer-Reporter as a “horrible and uncoachable” middle schooler, has since grown to become a father of two who has earned a college degree and potentially a chance to earn a spot on an NFL roster.
After playing at Liberty University from 2020-23, he transferred to Vanderbilt in the Southeastern Conference and spent his remaining two seasons of eligibility playing for the
Commodores.
Moving through the crowd gathered at the farmers market pavilion on South Main Street with the familiarity of a family reunion, Mitchell stopped to say hi and sign shirts for supporters.
Mitchell said it was great to see so many people who had supported his football journey attend the party.
“It’s really amazing being back in my hometown and seeing everyone I went to school with and played with. I’m so excited,” he said.
Mitchell provided a game-worn jersey from one of his last games for Vanderbilt to be raffled off in support of a local youth cheerleading organization.
Washington Mayor JoJo Burgess said it was a fun day, although very busy.
“We started setting this up at 8 a.m., so it’s been busy,” Burgess said.
The pavilion was full with local food and beverage vendors, with entertainment provided by DJ Smoke.
“I’m surprised it’s so many people, and I assume more people will come by once they get off work,” Burgess said.