6 free-agent running backs the Vikings could sign in 2020
By Dean Jones
DeAndre Washington
DeAndre Washington filled in well for standout rookie Josh Jacobs with the Oakland Raiders last season and he provides a real spark in third-down situations.
Washington is a supremely talented pass catcher and he can make things happen in space. His overall durability has been questioned at times, but there is no doubting his playmaking ability.
Washington is not the stereotypical size for an every-down back (5-foot-8, 210 pounds) and he is seen as a more situational player. He averaged 8.1 yards per catch last season and he provided Oakland quarterback Derek Carr with a very useful security blanket that he utilized regularly.
Although Dalvin Cook’s pass-catching out of the backfield improved significantly last year, this is an element of his game the Vikings may look to use less frequently to keep him fresh and avoid the serious injuries that have hampered his career so far.
Having a dependable presence catching the ball outside of Cook would also open up the playbook not only on third down for Minnesota, but in two running back sets against defenses that are susceptible to giving up yards after contact.
Washington’s price tag may put the Vikings out of the running for his services and there is a chance the Raiders might want to keep him on their roster for 2020 if the cost is right.
Other immediate holes need to be filled in Minnesota this offseason before addressing their running back depth. But Washington is an intriguing player who has the skills to thrive in Gary Kubiak’s offense.