All articles tagged with #mike washington jr
Raiders coach Klint Kubiak says Ashton Jeanty is still on the mend from an ankle injury, leaving his Week 1 availability uncertain vs. the Dolphins; if he’s sidelined, rookie Mike Washington Jr. could carry a sizeable role after a standout preseason.
Week 2 of the 2026 preseason shows Mike Washington Jr. emerging as the clear lead back for Las Vegas behind an injury-hit Ashton Jeanty, while Oronde Gadsden II’s fantasy stock dips as WR3 battles and backfield committees across teams continue to shape Week 1 projections.
Las Vegas used 10 picks to lean into a defense-first rebuild around franchise QB Fernando Mendoza, with standout best-in-class selections Jermod McCoy, Mike Washington Jr., and Brandon Cleveland. The Raiders traded up for McCoy at No. 101, added speed with Washington Jr. at No. 122, and landed a stout nose tackle in Cleveland, while Keyron Crawford and Dalton Johnson address development needs. Hezekiah Masses and Malik Benson are sleepers who could contribute early on special teams and depth at receiver. Overall, the draft emphasizes defensive upside while continuing to build around Mendoza.
Green Bay GM Brian Gutekunst said the Packers attempted to back into the end of the third round on Day 3 of the 2026 draft but stayed flexible; after drafting cornerback Brandon Cisse in the second round, Green Bay traded up to select Missouri defensive tackle Chris McClellan, a versatile lineman who can nose tackle, play three-tech and rush the passer. The club also eyed Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. as a potential late target and signaled confidence in paying wide receiver Christian Watson around $28 million per year after Jayden Reed’s extension, with the draft board remaining strong for further moves.
Stacey Dales drew widespread praise for her NFL Scouting Combine coverage, delivering insightful storytelling and strong interview soundbites, including capturing Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr.’s emotional reaction after his standout 4.33-second 40-yard dash and underscoring the Combine’s impact for players.
Arkansas RB Mike Washington Jr. ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, the fastest by a running back since 2024, drawing tears of joy and highlighting a 2025 season with 1,070 rushing yards and strong testing that could lift his draft stock.
Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. posted a blazing 4.33-second 40 and showed elite athleticism; Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane revealed a baking hobby and won’t run the 40; Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa said he’s open to moving to guard and is aiming for a sub-5.0 40; Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor reported strong interest from the Eagles (and Lions) and voiced openness to a guard move; Utah lineman Spencer Fano emphasized a pro-ready mindset and strong NFL lineage as he pursues a first‑round ascent.