News: 3 days agoWashington rushed six times for 63 yards, failed to bring in his only target and returned one kickoff for 22 yards in the Raiders' 27-14 preseason loss to the Cardinals on Thursday.
Spin: The rookie fourth-round pick is considered the favorite to open the season as the No. 2 back behind Ashton Jeanty, and Washington did nothing if not help cement that status in his NFL debut. The Arkansas product gained the bulk of his rushing production on his 53-yard scamper during the Raiders' third possession, but he also had a five-yard run wiped out by an offensive holding penalty. Washington averaged a stellar 6.4 yards per carry during his 2025 senior season with the Razorbacks, and he should have ample opportunity to prove his worth as a change-of-pace back during his rookie campaign.
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.
