Arkansas RB Mike Washington Jr. builds on standout combine

By Ross Jackson

Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington Jr. put together an impressive performance at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine. It was a showcase that put the back on many media radars and confirmed what scouts and NFL teams likely already knew of the versatile rusher. 

His 4.33-second 40-yard dash was the fastest clocked at his position in 2026. He also added the second-best vertical leap (39 inches) and broad jump (10-foot-8) numbers at running back. 

This week, at his Arkansas Pro Day, for which the New Orleans Saints were present, he added a 6.91-second three-cone and 4.32 short shuttle agility testing results to his ledger. Both are strong numbers to achieve and continue to elevate his already stellar draft process. 

The Saints just introduced a remarkable talent to the running back room by signing former Jacksonville Jaguars back Travis Etienne Jr. The Louisiana native will now live out his dream of being in the Saints’ backfield. But he isn’t expected to go at it alone. 

Whether with veteran back Alvin Kamara, other talented options on the roster or a drafted addition such as Washington, Etienne will be a part of a tandem or group of backs in head coach Kellen Moore’s offense. 

Moore’s best rushing attacks throughout his playcalling career have  featured a duo of backs. With the Dallas Cowboys, he had the pairing of Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard with Rico Dowdle eventually added to the mix. With the Philadelphia Eagles he had a 2,000-yard rusher in Saquon Barkley, but also leaned heavily on versatile back Kenneth Gainwell. 

As the coach looks to build his next committee in New Orleans, Washington may be a name to watch as a future investment at the position. 

Kamara’s contract voids after the 2026 season, as the 2027 league year begins. An investment in Washington or any other back in this year’s draft doesn’t point to an immediate end to Kamara’s time in the Big Easy, but does help to prepare the Saints for life after the all-world talent, whether that comes about sooner or later.