Rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. is turning heads with a rare mix of size and speed. His preseason form has already made him a tough player to handle. 

The discussion on NFL GameDay featured host Rhett Lewis, former NFL running back Maurice Jones-Drew, and NFL draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah. They broke down Mike Washington Jr.’s 33-yard carry against the Houston Texans, focusing on his size, speed, and footwork. 

“This is not a little scat back. He's 220 lbs doing this. Look at the footwork. 33-yard carry against the Texans to open things up. Arm tackles ain't going to get it against that dude,” the NFL GameDay panel said.

Washington Jr. is a fourth-round pick out of Arkansas and is expected to play an important role in the Las Vegas Raiders’ run game. The analysts also noted that he can run in the low 4.3s in the 40-yard dash, adding another weapon to his game, analysts said on the NFL GameDay via YouTube video.

He finished the 2026 preseason with 23 carries for 168 yards, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. His average ranked second among running backs with at least 20 carries during the preseason. 

His strong rushing form also dates back to his college career. Last season at Arkansas, Washington ranked fifth in the SEC with 1,070 rushing yards. 

Washington’s preseason form has backed up the analysts’ praise and shown why he could be a tough back to handle this season. 

But his strong showing could mean more than just a promising preseason.

With uncertainty around the Raiders’ backfield, Washington could now have a chance to take on a bigger role. 

Ashton Jeanty’s injury could give Mike Washington Jr. an early opportunity

According to Thomas L. Murray of the New York Post, Washington took on a bigger role against the San Francisco 49ers after starting running back Ashton Jeanty suffered a sprained ankle. 

“I’m ready,” Washington told reporters after the Raiders’ 18-12 loss to the 49ers. 

Speaking about the opportunity to play against the 49ers’ first team, Washington explained how he approached the chance to compete with the Raiders’ starters. 

“Staying where my feet are and taking advantage of the opportunity to be able to go out there and compete against their ones and run with our ones,” Washington added. “It’s a good experience.” 

Washington had rotated between the first and second strings during the preseason, but he became the Raiders’ bellcow against San Francisco following Jeanty’s injury.

Head coach Klint Kubiak expects Jeanty to be ready for Week 1, although the Raiders have not revealed the severity of his ankle injury. 

With Jeanty’s status still uncertain, Washington could have a chance to earn early-season snaps and build on the opportunity he received in the preseason finale. 

Written by

Divyanshi Raj

Edited by

Rudra Dubey