Raiders draft: Running backs who can complement Ashton Jeanty

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Raiders draft: Running backs who can complement Ashton Jeanty

Raiders draft: Running backs who can complement Ashton Jeanty

Las Vegas has options to bolster position group in next week’s NFL Draft

Raiders draft: Running backs who can complement Ashton Jeanty

Las Vegas has options to bolster position group in next week’s NFL Draft

The Las Vegas Raiders' running back room currently features a clear lead star and a significant question mark. Ashton Jeanty, the dynamic workhorse selected sixth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, is coming off a stellar rookie campaign of 975 yards and five touchdowns. However, the depth behind him is a concern, consisting of 2024 sixth-rounder Dylan Laube and undrafted free agent Damien Collier, who have a combined 13 career carries.

This lack of proven support has already prompted the Raiders to explore veteran options, including a visit from former Steeler and Charger Najee Harris this April. With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, finding a complementary back to pair with Jeanty is a clear priority for Head Coach Klint Kubiak's offense.

The ideal target would be a mid-to-late round prospect who fits the zone-blocking scheme Kubiak and offensive line coach Rick Dennison are implementing. While a player like Notre Dame's Jadarian Price possesses the perfect patience and vision for such a system, his projected first or second-round status likely places him out of reach for a depth-focused pick.

Instead, the Raiders could look for a developmental talent like Arkansas's Mike Washington Jr., a powerful 6'1", 223-pound back with a productive 2025 season (1,070 rushing yards, 8 TDs). His journey through Buffalo and New Mexico State before landing in the SEC showcases an adaptable skillset that could blossom in the right professional system, offering the Raiders a potential high-reward option to solidify their backfield behind their young franchise runner.

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