The Las Vegas Raiders have made it clear: they're building a backfield built for speed and depth. Following the 2026 NFL Draft, the team's running back room is shaping up with a fresh look—and plenty of intrigue.
After selecting Ashton Jeanty with the No. 6 overall pick last year, the Raiders surprised some by not adding a veteran complement in free agency. Instead, they circled back to the draft, grabbing Arkansas standout Mike Washington in the fourth round (No. 122 overall). Washington brings a blend of size and breakaway speed, making him a natural "home-run hitter" in the backfield.
Under new head coach Klint Kubiak, expect a committee approach. Kubiak has a history of deploying multiple tailbacks effectively, so Washington should see meaningful snaps both alongside and behind Jeanty. That two-pronged attack could keep defenses guessing all season.
Don't count out undrafted free agent Roman Hemby from Indiana either. He's a long shot but could push for a roster spot with a strong camp. Meanwhile, veterans like White and Mostert appear unlikely to return, and while the team looked at Harris, his recovery from a major injury makes him a risky addition.
For Raiders fans, the backfield is young, explosive, and built for the long haul—just the kind of energy that makes game days even more exciting.
