Raiders rookie running back makes 1st NFL game memorable

Las Vegas Raiders rookie running back Mike Washington Jr. turned his first NFL appearance into a memorable moment during Thursday night’s preseason debut. Early in the second quarter, Washington broke loose for a 53‑yard dash that set up Fernando Mendoza’s inaugural preseason touchdown pass. Washington recalled the instant, saying, “Score,” as he saw the opening ahead of him. Although he fell short of the end zone, he finished the game with a team‑high 63 yards on six carries. “He ended up catching up to me, but I was just thinking about scoring,” Washington said. “But really, I’ve just been grateful because soaking in this moment, not everybody can say that they’ve put on cleats, put on an NFL jersey, NFL helmet, and ran into an NFL stadium and played. I’m able to say that, and I’m able to say that I did it with my brothers out there.” His performance drew praise from NFL analyst Brian Baldinger, who featured Washington’s run and his subtle contributions in the passing game in a “Baldy’s Breakdown” segment. Washington, who had never attended an NFL game before Thursday, described the feeling of stepping onto the field. “Leading up to the game, I wasn’t nervous,” he said. “But when I touched the field, I was super nervous. Then, I got my first touch, I got hit. I guess I had my ‘Welcome to the NFL moment’ on that level route, and got hit again. But yeah, the nerves kind of went away after that.” Raiders interim coach Klint Kubiak noted Washington’s readiness. “I was pleased with what Mike did,” Kubiak said