The focus around the Las Vegas Raiders’ rookie class, clearly, has started with No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
It makes sense because he plays the most important position on the field and he has a chance to be the face of the franchise. Yet, the excitement about the 2026 Raiders’ rookie class extends beyond Mendoza and their could be a player who could also be a candidate for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
And he is in the same backfield as Mendoza.
While Mendoza is one
of the favorites to win the award, fourth-round pick, running back Mike Washington made be a dark horse candidate to take home the hardware.
According to our friends at FanDuel Sportsbook, the Arkansas product is priced at 45-1 to win the award. That is a steep price, but Washington might be worth the risk to back.
He is expected to get his share of carries this season and could play a lot early in the season because of Ashton Jeanty’s ankle issues.
Washington averaged 7.3 yards a carry in the preseason and he looks like a true playmaker. There’s been worse best placed, I’ll tell you that.
In other Raiders’ news:
Share your thoughts in Silver and Black Pride’s Feed in the comment section or by following this link to the Feed post.
- Good grades: Washington was the 14th highest graded rookie in the preseason by PFF.
- Power rankings: ESPN has a powers rankings.
Join the conversation!
Sign up for a user account and get:
- Fewer ads
- Create community posts
- Comment on articles, community posts
- Rec comments, community posts
- New, improved notifications system!
Download the SB Nation app on iOS or Android.
