Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. approaches the start of the 2026 NFL season as a player who strikes a great amount of intrigue. Washington not only excelled in the preseason, but may also be the benefactor of an unfortunate injury to Ashton Jeanty early in the year.
As a guest on Monday’s episode of “Good Morning Football” (via Sleeper Sports), former Raiders running back Raheem Mostert lauded Washington as being an inconspicuous player to watch in 2026.
"He's gonna be one of those 'under-the-radar' type of running backs,” Mostert said. “I'm just gonna let you all know, watch out for that guy."
"He's gonna be one of those 'under-the-radar' type of running backs. I'm just gonna let you all know, watch out for that guy."
Former #Raiders RB Raheem Mostert on Mike Washington Jr. (via @gmfb)pic.twitter.com/VLHacWyTnu
— SleeperRaiders (@SleeperRaiders) September 7, 2026
Washington enters the year with a blend of size, speed and explosiveness that figures to give Las Vegas another dynamic option in its offensive backfield, in the role that Mostert held last season. Mostert only received 22 carries behind Jeanty, who got 266 last year. Washington has the talent to receive exponentially more carries in 2026 than Mostert did as the previous backup, and give the Raiders more balance in the ground game.
The 23-year-old Washington has the ability to make plays in open space and create big gains, which may come to fruition and become especially valuable for Las Vegas as the season progresses, and a regular occurrence in the offense throughout the year. If he takes advantage of his opportunities, Washington will put himself in position to see his workload increase and become a reliable contributor for the Raiders.
Washington has the tools to change that quickly. A handful of impactful performances may put the young back firmly on the radar and make him one of the Raiders’ breakout stars in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Former Raiders RB offers strong endorsement of rookie Mike Washington
