Among running backs in this year’s draft class, Arkansas standout Mike Washington Jr. is one of the more intriguing names. With the 2026 NFL Draft approaching, here are three organizations that could emerge as potential landing spots.
Seattle Seahawks
Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III inked a deal with Kansas City this offseason, and soon-to-be fourth-year running back Zach Charbonnet has no official timetable for his return.
The current group features Emanuel Wilson, George Holani, and Kenny McIntosh. Each of those runners is limited in their role, and may not be capable of taking on the Seahawks’ lead role.
The reigning champs understand that an effective running attack is key to winning ball games. They have already brought in Washington for a top-30 visit this offseason, and with the No. 96 selection, Seattle could look to draft Washington and have the rookie lead their backfield in 2026.
San Francisco 49ers
Head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters he’d like to reduce the load off of star running back Christian McCaffrey entering next season.
Whether or not that sentiment is true remains to be seen; however, selecting Washington would make that decision a whole lot easier.
Additionally, with Brian Robinson Jr. joining Atlanta, the 49ers’ backfield outside McCaffrey is a bit uncertain. Jordan James and Isaac Guerendo sit behind McCaffrey on the depth chart, and while they have shown some flashes in a small sample size, Washington could have a much higher impact.
The 49ers, as they always have, will continue to look for more firepower this offseason. Without a third-round selection, though, San Francisco could either reach for Washington back at No. 58 or hope he falls to No. 127.
Washington Commanders
Assuming the Commanders don’t select Notre Dame star Jeremiyah Love at No. 7 overall in the first-round, they will remain with a major talent void at the running back position.
This offseason, the team signed former Buccaneer and Jayden Daniels’ college teammate, Rachaad White. However, they also allowed Chris Rodriguez Jr. to walk in free agency.
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The rest of the room features Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Jerome Ford, and Jeremy McNichols. There is no guarantee Ford and McNichols make the 53-man roster come fall, especially if they draft Washington.
This past season, the Commanders’ offense posted a 78.1, ranking 11th among all units according to PFSN’s metrics. With the No. 71 selection in this year’s draft, the franchise could add Washington to its backfield, hoping to take its offense to the next level.
