Who is Mike Washington Jr.? Why Ashton Jeanty's backup is a threat for opposing defenses

Teams talk about a "clean slate" but the Raiders are living that mantra. 

Las Vegas just drafted Fernando Mendoza, Heisman-winning QB, No. 1 overall this year. They drafted superstar running back Ashton Jeanty in the top 10 last year. The year prior? Brock Bowers with the 13th overall pick.

That's just the core trio of the Raiders offense. But even the backup RB is young. 

Mike Washington Jr., who was drafted in the fourth round this year, is set to back up Jeanty. 

And if the rookie gets opportunities, he could show why the rest of the league made a mistake letting him slip to pick No. 122.

Why Mike Washington Jr. could be a threat in the Raiders offense

Mike Washington Jr. has something to offer the Raiders. 

Listed at 6-foot-1 and 223 pounds, the rookie rusher has shown some promise this preseason. 

He's had 9 carries for 56 yards through two preseason contests. His best highlight was a breakaway run against Arizona for 33 yards. 

MORE: Ashton Jeanty injury: Raiders short on running back depth after star goes down

From 2021-2023, Washington had 1,119 yards and 10 TD's. He transferred to New Mexico St. where he carried the ball 157 times for 725 yards and 8 TD's.

His final collegiate season, Washington had over 1,000 yards and 8 TD's. He also set career highs with 28 receptions for 226 yards. 

The rookie has proven he can do it all out of the backfield. He's a big enough body to serve in pass protection. And his NFL tape has shined thus far. 

Raiders starter Ashton Jeanty suffered a knee injury at Sunday's practice. If he's out for any stretch of time, Washington is set to step up.

But even if Jeanty is okay, Washington should get reps on field. Jeanty won't play 100% of the snaps and if the rookie proves he can pass protect he'll get carries. 

Mike Washington Jr. may not be a household name in fantasy drafts but he could be a sleeper pick that surprises doubters. 

MORE: Raiders' Fernando Mendoza gets bad news as Kirk Cousins gears up for the start