Why Denver Should Target Mike Washington Jr. in the 2026 NFL Draft

The Denver Broncos won’t be on the clock early in the 2026 NFL Draft.

After trading their first-round pick to acquire Jaylen Waddle, the Broncos’ first selection won’t come until No. 62 overall. That reality limits their ability to land one of the top-tier prospects – but it doesn’t eliminate the opportunity to find real value.

And with running back depth still a clear need, one name worth monitoring closely is former Arkansas Razorbacks standout Mike Washington Jr.

A Realistic Target at a Position of Need

Denver’s need at running back is no secret.

With limited options remaining in free agency, the draft now represents the Broncos’ best opportunity to add depth and competition to the backfield. However, by the time Denver is on the clock, the top option will almost certainly be off the board.

Former Notre Dame Fighting Irish standout Jeremiyah Love – the consensus top running back prospect in this year’s draft class – is expected to be selected in the first round. The Broncos would likely have to give up too much to move into range to draft him.

That’s where Washington enters the conversation.

Production That Stands Out

Washington may not be a household name, but his production suggests he deserves attention.

During the 2025 campaign with Arkansas, he rushed for 1,070 yards and eight touchdowns across 12 games. Even more impressive, he averaged 6.4 yards per carry – ranking ninth in the FBS.

That kind of efficiency speaks to both vision and big-play ability.

Washington consistently maximized his opportunities, showing the ability to create chunk gains while maintaining steady production between the tackles.

A Unique Blend of Size and Speed

One of Washington’s most intriguing traits is his physical profile.

At 6-foot-1 and 233 pounds, Washington brings imposing size to the position – and he pairs it with rare speed, having clocked a 4.33-second 40-yard dash. That combination alone makes him one of the most physically intriguing running back prospects in this class

He also displays impressive agility for his size, with loose hips and quick feet that allow him to change direction smoothly. Washington is particularly effective when runs are designed to stretch horizontally, showing the burst to turn the corner and the vision to navigate developing lanes.

Once he gets downhill, he becomes even more difficult to handle.

Power and Playmaking Ability

Washington’s size isn’t just for show – it translates directly to his running style.

He runs through contact with authority, frequently overpowering defensive backs and falling forward for additional yardage. That ability to consistently gain extra yards can be especially valuable in short-yardage situations.

He also brings some versatility as a pass-catcher.

While not a primary receiving weapon, Washington has shown he can make plays on swing passes and generate yardage in space. That adds another layer to his potential role at the next level.

Areas That Need Refinement

Like many mid-round prospects, Washington is not a finished product.

At times, he can be slow to process developing lanes, which leads to hesitation before committing downhill. In outside-zone concepts, he occasionally needs extra gather steps to make his cuts, limiting his explosiveness in tight spaces.

Ball security is another concern.

Washington has totaled 11 fumbles over the past two seasons, an issue that will need to be addressed at the next level. Additionally, while he has the size to contribute in pass protection, he lacks consistent aggression in that area.

A Familiar NFL Comparison

According to Lance Zierlein of NFL.com, Washington’s skill set draws comparisons to former Seattle Seahawks running back Chris Carson.

Carson built a successful NFL career on physical running, balance, and the ability to grind out tough yards. He recorded back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons in 2018 and 2019, helping lead the Seahawks to playoff appearances in both years.

If Washington can develop along a similar path, he could provide significant value at the next level.

A Logical Fit for Denver

For the Broncos, Washington represents a realistic and intriguing option.

He may not have the polish or upside of the top prospects in the class, but his combination of size, efficiency, and big-play potential makes him a strong candidate to contribute early in a rotational role.

More importantly, he fills a clear need.

If Denver is unable to address the running back position before the draft, targeting a player like Washington at No. 62 could be a smart way to add depth without overreaching.

In a draft where value will be critical, Mike Washington Jr. is exactly the type of prospect the Broncos should be targeting.