The Arkansas Razorbacks were a tough watch in 2026, but the offense possesses some intriguing prospects with curious upside. One of the highlight players on the roster is running back Mike Washington Jr. Washington was a focal point of this Razorbacks offense and is now a late-round dart throw for the 2026 NFL Draft. What does his scouting report look like? Let's talk about it.
Washington, a former two-star recruit out of Cicero-North Syracuse High School in Cicero, New York, would spend three years at Buffalo before transferring once to New Mexico State, then landing at Arkansas for his final year. He would find his most success at Arkansas, as he rushed for 1,070 yards and eight touchdowns while averaging 6.4 yards per carry, good enough for 19th in the country.
Mike Washington Jr. moves way better than a player his size should. At 228 lbs, he is nimble and quicker than fast, able to hit holes with authority. Smooth hips allow him to change direction on a dime, and he can break those arm tackles in the hole at the line of scrimmage. He's a violent runner when he wants to be, who runs behind his pads and has a knack for dragging defenders down when he goes to the ground. Washington has fine enough receiving abilities out of the backfield, but it is an area of opportunity.
We don't love when running backs put the ball on the ground often, but this is an ongoing struggle for Washington. Fumbles have plagued him since his time at Buffalo. Rhamondre Stevenson has a similar issue but finds a way to remain on the field, so there is a pathway for him. A player at his frame should be stronger in pass protection, but it more is that he almost doesn't want to be back there blocking, which is a concern. Struggles to get through those small spaces.
Mike Washington Jr. is a flyer most teams should take on day three. He gets a sixth-round grade and would be someone who could carve out an interesting role on an offense, should he land in the right system.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2026 NFL Draft scouting report: Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas