The Las Vegas Raiders are slowly but surely building the roster this offseason after taking Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. While Las Vegas is expected to utilize the running game with Ashton Jeanty to help ease Mendoza into the NFL, the front office found a potential backup for Jeanty on Day 3 of the draft.
The Raiders selected former Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington Jr. in the fourth round of the draft, according to insider Jordan Schultz. Washington brings speed to the table and should have a chance to earn a depth role in the backfield.
“Pick is in: Raiders are drafting Arkansas RB Mike Washington, Jr., per sources,” reported Schultz… “Mike Washington Jr. is 6-1, 223 pounds, and ran a 4.33. Young, talented tandem in the Raiders’ backfield between him and Ashton Jeanty.”
Washington, who is 22 years old, had quite the journey during his time playing college football. He began his collegiate career with the Buffalo Bulls in 2021 as a true freshman. After three years with the program, he transferred to New Mexico State in 2024, then to Arkansas in 2025.
The decision to play for the Razorbacks may have been the best choice for Washington’s NFL career. In 12 games played, he recorded 1,070 rushing yards and nine total touchdowns (eight rushing). Washington also added an additional 226 receiving yards, making it his most productive college football season.
The backfield belongs to Ashton Jeanty, who was the Raiders’ first-round pick last year. But Mike Washington Jr. certainly has the skills needed to serve as a change-of-pace back for the Raiders’ offense.
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