October 23, 2026 - 6:00 am

Mike Washington Jr. didn’t practice Thursday for the Las Vegas Raiders , meaning he might not play Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams at Allegiant Stadium. But if the rookie running back’s health takes a turn for the better by the time play begins, he figures to find his way into their offense.

Once again.

He played a season-high 23 snaps after playing five the week before (in a 28-point loss to the New England Patriots) and served as the tailback on passing downs, a rarity the first five games.

Washington leads Raiders running backs with 4.9 yards per carry this season, logging their longest run this year, a 36-yard scoring sprint last month against the New Orleans Saints.

Las Vegas ranks 31st in rushing efficiency, averaging 3 yards per rush.

Said running backs coach Omar Young after Thursday’s practice that Washington didn’t participate in with foot and back injuries: “The cool thing about Mike is confidence is the one thing he has never wavered on.…