Raiders RB Mike Washington named top rookie RB in NFL preseason Week 1

Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. showcased his talent and potential during the team's preseason Week 1 game against the Arizona Cardinals. Picking up on his impressive performance, Pro Football Focus named Washington the top rookie running back in their preseason week 1 team of the week. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 228 pounds, Washington proved to be a powerful change of pace for the Raiders' backup running back Ashton Jeanty.

During the game, Washington dominated the field, making 63 yards on just six carries, with 52 of those yards coming after contact. This powerful performance saw Washington complete a crucial 53-yard rush with 8:03 left in the second quarter, leading to a game-tying touchdown for Las Vegas. Selected in the fourth round, Washington outshone fellow rookie running backs J’Mari Taylor of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Emmett Johnson of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Jeremiyah Love of the Arizona Cardinals, despite the latter three having more rushing yards and touchdowns in their respective debut performances.

Looking ahead, Washington is set to continue his exceptional play throughout the rest of the preseason, solidifying his status as a premier rookie to watch in the NFL.