Favorite pick from the Raiders’ 2026 draft class

Oct 18, 2025; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington Jr (4) celebrates after rushing for a first down in the second quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images | Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images The duo of John Spytek and Klint Kubiak completed the 2026 NFL Draft excursion this past weekend with eyes of rebuilding the Las Vegas Raiders into a competitive — if not, respectable — football team heading into coming season and beyond.

Entrusted by owner Mark Davis, the general manager and head coach, respectively, joined forces to land 10 prospects over the course of the three-day draft to bolster a Silver & Black roster in need of a jolt. One of the spots that needed a boost was running back. With just unproven commodities Dylan Laube and Chris Collier the depth behind starting tailback Ashton Jeanty heading into the draft, adding to the running back room was a must.

The Raiders addressed this spot by trading up in the fourth round to land Arkansas’ Mike Washington Jr. with the 122nd overall pick. Not only is this Razorback an ideal scheme fit for Kubiak, but also happens to be my favorite pick by the Raiders over the course of the seven rounds.

By The Numbers Mike Washington Jr. , Running Back, Arkansas 2025: 12 games, 167 carries, 1,070 yards, 8 touchdowns; 28 receptions, 226 yards, 1 touchdown Career: (2021-25), 51 games, 587 carries, 2,914 yards, 26 touchdowns; 73 receptions, 470 yards, 3 touchdowns A home run hitting WEAPON for Kubiak, Mendoza, and the Raiders ❤️‍🩹 Mike Washington Jr. is an A+ pick at this spot.