If DeAndre Washington is as good as he showed in his pro debut Friday night, the Raiders' offense has a terrific new weapon.
Washington, a rookie running back from Texas Tech, showed big-play capability with quickness and explosive speed in the Raiders' 31-10 victory over the Cardinals in the team's exhibition opener in Arizona.
Washington, a 5-foot-8, 204-pounder, was terrific in both the running and passing games against the Cardinals. He carried eight times for 43 yards and caught one short pass from rookie Connor Cook in the third quarter and turned it into a 32-yard gain.
His playmaking skills certainly caught the attention of Raiders fans. Tweeted one: "I'm diggin' DeAndre Washington." Tweeted NFL.com: "DeAndre Washington is FAST."
The Raiders have been looking for a backup running back to starter Latavius Murray and a multipurpose change-of-pace back, and Washington has shown in training camp -- and now in a game situation -- that he appears to be the answer.
In addition, running back George Atkinson III -- also vying for a roster spot -- had a big game, carrying five times for 97 yards and two touchdowns.
Starters played only briefly against the Cardinals. Murray carried just four times for 21 yards. Quarterback Derek Carr completed 3-of-7 passes for 44 yards. Cook made his pro debut completing 7-of-11 passes for 71 yards.
