Raiders Fourth-Round Rookie Outpacing No. 3 Pick in Key Rushing Stat

The Las Vegas Raiders have struggled to establish a consistent rushing attack this season, but one of their rookies is outperforming a much more highly drafted running back in a key statistical category.

Mike Washington Jr., selected in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, is averaging 4.9 yards per carry, compared with 3.7 for Arizona Cardinals rookie Jeremiyah Love, the No. 3 overall pick.

According to the Raiders' official statistics, Washington has rushed for 195 yards and one touchdown on 40 carries.

Love, the former Notre Dame standout, has gained 245 yards and scored once on 67 attempts, according to NFL.com.

The difference is striking considering Arizona selected Love 119 picks before Las Vegas drafted Washington out of Arkansas at No. 122.

Washington has also produced eight rushing first downs, meaning 20% of his attempts have resulted in first downs.

Despite playing behind Ashton Jeanty, the Raiders' featured running back, Washington has provided several explosive plays, including a 36-yard touchdown run against New Orleans.

In Sunday's 35-21 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Washington gained 27 yards on six carries, including a 21-yard run, after dealing with foot and back injuries during the week.

He previously rushed for 43 yards on nine attempts against Buffalo.

Washington's efficiency stands out amid the Raiders' ongoing rushing struggles. Jeanty has averaged approximately 3.1 yards per carry this season.

However, the comparison with Love comes with important distinctions.

Love has handled a larger workload but missed Arizona's last two games with an ankle injury, limiting him to five appearances.

Washington's smaller sample also means his average could change significantly with a handful of carries, particularly considering his 36-yard touchdown run accounts for a substantial portion of his production.

Still, his early numbers suggest the Raiders found value with their fourth-round selection.

General manager John Spytek previously revealed that coach Klint Kubiak strongly advocated for drafting Washington, believing the Arkansas product was an ideal fit for his offensive system.

Washington's production has helped justify that confidence, although his availability became a concern when he missed practice last week with foot and back injuries.

He returned against the Rams, providing another glimpse of the potential Las Vegas identified in the fourth round.