Rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. is drawing attention from veteran players, with former Raiders tailback Raheem Mostert calling him an "under-the-radar" player to watch. Mostert, who spent his 11th NFL season with the Raiders last year, appeared on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football" on Tuesday to discuss Washington's potential.
Mostert noted that he observed Washington during his final collegiate season at Arkansas, where the running back rushed for 1,070 yards and eight touchdowns, finishing as a top-five rusher in the SEC. "I know their running backs coach over there, and I had called him one time on FaceTime and gave him a nice, deliberate message," Mostert said.
What impressed Mostert during a FaceTime call with Washington was the rookie's attentiveness. "I said to keep your poise and do everything you can because that next level is going to be even more so determining for you guys," Mostert recalled telling Washington.
Washington was selected by the Raiders in the fourth round of the NFL Draft in April. He has quickly climbed the team's depth chart and is currently listed as the second-string running back. His role expanded during training camp when second-year player Ashton Jeanty suffered an ankle sprain, leading Washington to share snaps with the starters.
Washington demonstrated his capability during the preseason, rushing for 168 yards on 23 carries, averaging an impressive 7.3 yards per carry. "Obviously, what he's doing right now with the Raiders, I'm super excited to see that as well," Mostert said. "... I'm just letting y'all know, watch out for that guy."