Rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. is expressing strong confidence in his readiness for the NFL season, declaring "I'm ready" after the Las Vegas Raiders' preseason loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Washington showcased his abilities during the game, leading the team with 49 rushing yards on eight carries and adding 18 receiving yards on two receptions.
Washington has been rotating between the Raiders' first and second units throughout the preseason. His opportunity to play with the ones on Thursday night against the 49ers' starters was partly due to starting running back Ashton Jeanty suffering a sprained ankle. While head coach Klint Kubiak anticipates Jeanty will be ready for Week 1, the severity of his injury has not been disclosed, potentially opening early-season playing time for Washington.
"Staying where my feet are and taking advantage of the opportunity to be able to go out there and compete against their ones and run with our ones," Washington said of his performance. "It’s a good experience."
He attributed his confidence to his faith. "The confidence comes from my faith, Jesus, he’s the center of my everything, so that’s where my confidence comes from. I thank him every day."
During training camp, the fourth-round draft pick has made an impression. Last season at Arkansas, Washington rushed for 1,070 yards, ranking fifth in the SEC.