New Washington Commanders running back Rachaad White breaks down what led him to sign with Washington, reunite with former college teammate Rachaad White
Adding a former teammate of Jayden Daniels could shed some additional light about the Washington Commanders star quarterback, Jayden Daniels. Just ask Rachaad White.
"Whatever y'all want to know, I give you all the secrets," White joked after meeting with reporters following news that his one-year deal had become official.
What was not a secret was White's desire to head to Washington this offseason, quickly changing his profile picture on X to one of both he and Daniels during their time together at Arizona State. The two spent two seasons together with the Sun Devils as Daniels rose to stardom as White notched 1,000 rushing seasons, establishing a strong connection that fueled his eventual interest in a reunion.
Whether it was his number one choice is something he is keeping private, but White admitted Washington was "one of my top choices" as a free agent, making the move a reality to become the second running back in the room.
"It'd be a good situation. Obviously I thought it'd be great to play with my best friend again and things like that. So yeah, for sure it was huge."
White adds an element that was missing in the room. What doesn't show up in the stats is his ability to elevate the pass blocking, a trait that is easier said than done for college or NFL backs to thrive in. But he also adds another element as a receiving threat having recorded 50 catches or more in each of his first three seasons, including 64 catches for 549 yards and three touchdowns back in 2022.
A former third round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, he also notched at least 500 rushing yards in each of his last three seasons while averaging over four yards per carry in each of his last two, ending his tenure with the Buccaneers with 14 total touchdowns and 2,656 yards on 677 carries and 67 games.
Serving as a complementary piece alongside Jacory Croskey-Merritt, White pointed to his awareness and skillset as a perfect match in David Blough's offense.
"The quarterback is the one that makes obviously the bulk or a lot of the money and protecting him is huge. And quarterback obviously is essential to us winning games. So boils down to two, just doing my job, doing what I'm asked to do. That's a part of my job description," White said.
White also becomes the second free agent signing on offense, becoming the latest weapon for Jayden Daniels, or as White noted, "my best friend."
"I bring a different aspect of competing. I'm a dog. Obviously I feel like I'm a running back that can do everything. I got a great skillset, great feel for the game."
With just one running back on the roster, it was a need for David Blough and the coaching staff this offseason as former Notre Dame star Jeremiyah Love has drawn buzz as a name to know in next month's draft. Until then, White will now look to become the next piece as part of an offense looking to return back to 2024 form after turning the page from a forgettable 2025 season.
"The game ain't based off of sympathy. So it aint no sympathy."