Despite a modest role, rookie running back Mike Washington broke off a 21‑yard sprint that hinted at bigger things for the Raiders’ 2026 draft class.
Key points
- Mike Washington logged 27 yards on six carries, highlighted by a 21‑yard run, after being a game‑day decision due to injuries.
- Eight of the ten 2026 draft picks remain on the Raiders’ active roster, but many have seen minimal defensive or offensive snaps.
- Second‑round pick Treydan Stukes is the only rookie to play every defensive snap, indicating a potential cornerstone for the defense.
The Las Vegas Raiders fell 35‑21 at home to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 8, a game that also served as a barometer for the team’s 2026 rookie class, eight of whose ten picks remain on the 53‑man roster.
Mike Washington, a fourth‑round pick, was a game‑day decision after dealing with foot and back injuries but managed 18 snaps and six carries for 27 yards, including a 21‑yard run that the coaching staff hopes to see more of in the upcoming Sunday contest against the New York Jets.
Washington's limited but impactful work
Other rookies saw varied usage: second‑rounder Treydan Stukes logged all 72 defensive snaps, establishing himself as a core defender, while third‑round pick Trey Zuhn recorded five offensive and four special‑teams snaps, matching his typical workload. Fourth‑rounder Jermod McCoy did not play on defense for the fifth time this season but contributed 13 special‑teams snaps.
The fifth‑round safety Dalton Johnson was inactive for the sixth time in seven games, and fifth‑round cornerback Zeke Masses saw his most snaps (29) since losing his starting role three weeks ago. Sixth‑round Malik Benson recorded a season‑low three snaps, was targeted once without a catch, and returned two punts for 26 yards.
Snap counts for other 2026 rookies
Looking ahead, the Raiders will evaluate how much additional work Washington can earn against the Jets, while the broader rookie group will need to translate limited opportunities into consistent production if the team hopes to reverse its recent slide.
Reader questions
What was Mike Washington's contribution in the loss to the Rams?
Washington played 18 snaps, carried the ball six times for 27 yards, and broke off a 21‑yard run.
How many of the Raiders' 2026 draft picks are still on the 53‑man roster?
Eight of the ten players selected in the 2026 draft are currently on the Raiders' 53‑man roster.
What should fans watch for when the Raiders face the Jets?
Fans should watch whether Washington receives more carries and how the other rookies, especially those with limited snaps, are integrated into the game plan.
Source: silverandblackpride.com
