​Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Mike Washington Jr. (30) runs with the ball as Houston Texans cornerback Alijah Huzzie (28) attempts to make a tackle during the second quarter at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect The Las Vegas Raiders got bad news on Sunday when their star running back went down. Former sixth overall pick Ashton Jeanty landed awkwardly during Sunday’s practice and had to be helped off the field. It was reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter that it was diagnosed as a sprained ankle.John Spytek has prepared the team for this scenario by drafting running back Mike Washington Jr. out of Arkansas. Washington Jr. has shined during the preseason, averaging 7.9 yards per carry after two games. He has two rushes over 30 yards, and his knack for explosive plays has exhibited itself on the field. He is also catching the eye of his coaching staff. Offensive Coordinator Andrew Janacko spoke about the former Arkansas Razorback’s growth and work ethic. “I think Mike [Washington Jr.] comes to work. He works very hard every day. Mike comesand he studies very hard. He asks great questions. He’s on his craft all the time, and it’s something thatyou see translate into the practice field. It’s something that we keep pushing him every single day. It’ssomething that’s always going to be a point of emphasis for him that he comes out every single day, he’sprepared to the best of his ability, and then you see it translate onto the grass. So, that’s something thatwe are always going to constantly be on him.”Now Washington Jr. might have to handle the workload set for Jeanty. He has the opportunity to prove that he is worth the draft pick early on during the season. Let’s see if Washington Jr. makes the most of this moment. In other Raiders links:TDL film review of preseason Week 2: The crew at Tape Don’t Lie has the latest film review for the win against the Houston Texans. Ashton Jeanty avoids major injury: The Raiders get good news about Jeanty’s injury, as it is reported to be just a sprained ankle. The Year 2 bar for Raiders wide receiver Don’te Thornton Jr.: Ray Aspuria has the rundown on the bar for wide receiver Don’te Thornton Jr. Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community postsNew, improved notifications system!