Mike Washington Jr. gets under-the-radar billing before Raiders opener

The 228-pound rookie ran a combine-best 4.33-second 40.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 71 min read

"He's gonna be one of those 'under the radar' type of running backs" 🕵️‍♂️ @RMos_8Ball on @Raiders rookie RB Mike Washi Via @gmfb on X

What happened: The assessment came during GMFB's prediction week ahead of the Raiders' 2026 opener. Las Vegas traded up in April to select Mike Washington Jr. with the No. 122 pick.

Why it matters: His preseason output suggests the fourth-round investment can contribute immediately. A productive reserve would deepen the Raiders' rushing options over a 17-game schedule.

By the numbers: Washington gained 168 yards on 23 preseason carries, averaging 7.3 yards per attempt. He posted game totals of 63, 56 and 49 yards, with a longest run of 53 yards.

What to watch: Washington's workload in the opener will indicate how much of his preseason production translates into a regular-season role.

Sources

@gmfb 2026-09-07T22:51:42.233278+00:00

CONVERSATION

Loading comments…

NFLPreviewLas Vegas RaidersMike Washington Jr.

Follow NFL Intelligence

Real-time signals and analysis

@WireReportNFL

WR Pro

The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.

$9/month Free weekly newsletter →