MikeWashington Jr.

News: 18 hours agoWashington rushed nine times for 56 yards while catching two of three targets for 18 yards in Thursday's 22-20 preseason win over the Texans.

Spin: Washington has churned out an impressive 119 yards on 15 carries through two preseason games, averaging a robust 7.9 yards per carry thanks to a 56-yard run against the Cardinals in the previous game and a 33-yard run Thursday against the Texans. The rookie fourth-round pick out of Arkansas has shown nice burst in establishing himself as the favorite to back up Ashton Jeanty heading into Vegas' preseason finale against the 49ers next Thursday.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Washington was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of April's draft. He's a big back with terrific speed who lit up the combine with a 4.33 40-yard dash at 6-foot-1, 223 pounds (127 speed score), while also checking in with the longest arms in this rookie RB class. His collegiate efficiency wasn't very good during stops in Buffalo and New Mexico State, but it was better in 2025 -- his lone season at Arkansas -- as he averaged 6.41 yards per carry and 3.62 yards after contact, both of which rank seventh or better in this RB class. He might not be much of an option in the passing game, as his career 4.2 yards per target is the worst in this RB class, but his traits make him an intriguing prospect. Washington will open his career as a clear No. 2 option behind Ashton Jeanty, which makes him an intriguing end-of-bench insurance stash.