Full Breakdown
Raiders and Broncos Address Roster Needs on Day Three of the 2026 NFL Draft
4/28/2026, 1:34:10 AM
Core Selections
On the third day of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders selected former Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. in the fourth round (122nd overall). The Denver Broncos added Kage Casey, a versatile offensive lineman from Boise State, with the 111th-overall pick in the same round. Both teams used the selections to address specific positional depth concerns identified during the offseason.
Background & Team Needs
The Raiders entered the draft under new head coach Klint Kubiak, who has expressed a desire for a “dual-running attack” reminiscent of his previous Seattle Seahawks scheme that featured Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet. With first-round running back Ashton Jeanty already on the roster, the Raiders sought a complementary back to create a one-two punch.
The Broncos, whose offensive line was widely regarded as the league’s best in 2025, already feature veterans Garett Bolles (LT), Mike McGlinchey (RT), Ben Powers, and Quinn Meinerz (guards). Their draft strategy focused on adding depth and positional flexibility, particularly a swing tackle who could also fill guard duties in case of injury.
Player Profiles & Statistics
- Mike Washington Jr. finished the 2025 season with a 78.3 overall PFF grade (127th of 406 RBs) and an 84.3 rushing grade (76th among rushers). He recorded 167 carries for 1,066 yards (6.4 YPC) and eight rushing touchdowns, forced 34 missed tackles, and averaged 3.9 yards after contact. As a receiver, he caught 28 passes for 226 yards and one touchdown.
- Kage Casey is a 6-foot-6, 310-pound lineman who played over 40 games at Boise State. Scouts note his ability to play tackle, guard, and swing-tackle roles, though his “below-average length” may limit effectiveness at the edge. He signed a four-year, $5.4 million non-guaranteed contract, with a signing bonus expected near $1 million.
Official Statements & Reactions
Washington Jr. conveyed enthusiasm about joining Jeanty, emphasizing a desire to learn while also competing for the lead back role. Sports-talk host Colin Cowherd praised the Raiders’ offseason moves as a “Chicago Bears model,” highlighting the front office’s sharpness. Broncos analysts described the Casey pick as a depth addition rather than a headline-making selection, noting the team’s existing line strength.
Criticism & Concerns
Commentary on the Broncos’ choice points out that the pick “didn’t make a splashy pick,” suggesting limited immediate impact. Analysts also flag Casey’s “below-average length” as a potential drawback when facing NFL-level edge rushers, indicating he may need development before securing a starting role.
Verbatim Quotes
- “All I could think of is thunder and lightning, so I’m super excited to be the one-two punch with him and to really, like I said before, be a sponge and learn from him at the same time.” — Mike Washington Jr., Running Back
- “It’s inexcusable what Cleveland, the Jets, Arizona, and Tennessee have become, and for the record, the Raiders have been in that group, but I think their GM is super sharp,” — Colin Cowherd, FS1 Host
- “But they added depth on their offensive line with pick No.” — MikeKlis9NEWS, Denver Sports Reporter (Twitter)
- “Well-proportioned, durable tackle prospect who counters his lack of length with persistence that helps him finish the job.” — NFL.com Draft Profile
- “He can play tackle, but also move inside and play guard.” — 1035 KISS FM Boise, Draft Analysis
What’s Next
Both players will report to rookie minicamps in May. Washington Jr. will compete for a backup running-back slot behind Jeanty, while Casey will vie for swing-tackle and guard depth on the Broncos’ roster. Their performances in training camp will determine whether they secure active-roster spots or begin the season on practice squads, shaping the early-season depth charts for Las Vegas and Denver.
