Rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. just tore up the preseason, leading all backs with 10 or more carries by averaging a jaw-dropping 7.3 yards per touch. Seriously, the guy piled up 168 yards on just 23 carries, and the NFL actually dropped a video showing *every single one* of his rushes because the hype is that real. We’re talking about a fourth-round pick here, making everyone who passed on him look absolutely foolish as the regular season kicks off.
The “Small Miracle” Running Back Is Unleashed
This dude heating up wasn’t some slow burn. On just his fourth carry of the entire preseason, Washington exploded, navigating traffic, breaking a tackle, and then just *gone* for a massive 53-yard sprint that ended at the Arizona 12-yard line. Then, in the very next game against the Texans, he opened with another bomb, breaking off 33 yards on his first touch. He even tacked on a slick 14-yard run in the finale against the 49ers. He came into the draft with a ton of buzz, and the fact he was still on the board at 122nd overall when he was selected in the fourth round? That’s what you call a small miracle. He’s been nothing but a nightmare for every team that let him slip by.
The Backfield Just Got A Whole Lot More Dangerous
What does this mean for the Raiders? They’ve got a seriously viable number two option behind Ashton Jeanty now, and frankly, Washington looks like he could be a solid replacement if Jeanty’s ankle injury keeps him sidelined at all. This isn’t just a depth piece; this is a potential game-changer. His performance has created real excitement and put the entire league on notice that this rookie is for real.
The Raiders kick off their season this Sunday, September 13, at home against the Miami Dolphins. All eyes will be on Washington to see if he can keep that incredible preseason momentum rolling into games that actually count. If he does, watch out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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