Raiders May Lean More on Mike Washington Jr. in Week 8

The Las Vegas Raiders may increase rookie running back Mike Washington Jr.'s workload in Week 8 amid the team's ongoing offensive struggles. While Ashton Jeanty was anticipated to thrive under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, Washington has demonstrated greater efficiency with fewer opportunities. Insider Hondo Carpenter reported that Washington is continually building trust and could take meaningful carries from Jeanty if the starting back struggles early.

Warren Mitchell notes that a drastic backfield overhaul remains unlikely in the immediate term. Jeanty remains an asset in pass protection and the receiving game, and general manager John Spytek is typically patient with his top draft picks. Consequently, any significant shift toward Washington may occur gradually rather than through an outright benching of Jeanty.