News: 2 days agoWashington is listed as the No. 2 running back on the Raiders' unofficial depth chart, Sam Warren of The Athletic reports.
Spin: Monday's unofficial depth chart shows that Washington has the edge for the backup role after training camp. The fourth-round rookie is competing with Dylan Laube, Dare Ogunbowale and Roman Hemby to serve as the main complementary option behind Ashton Jeanty. If Washington can continue to impress in practice and preseason, he may be a good fantasy handcuff to Jeanty in 2026. The presence of star center Tyler Linderbaum, who signed as a free agent this offseason, should also benefit any running backs that take snaps for the Raiders during the coming season.
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.