No one within the Minnesota Vikings fan base was surprised to hear about the news that Aaron Jones was going to be released unless he was traded first.
Jones struggled to stay healthy last year and was never quite the back he was in 2024, leaving the Vikings with a need for someone to be Jordan Mason's sidekick in the backfield. One possible solution to that situation could be in the draft, as NFL.com's Nick Shook named NFL Combine standout and Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington Jr. to his All-Combine team while naming the Vikings one of his best team fits.
"Washington recorded the fastest 40 time within his position group (4.33) at this year's event -- an outstanding effort that moved him to tears. The rest of his testing profile included a 10-foot-8 broad jump and a 39-inch vertical, which all together earned him the top-ranked NGS athleticism score (92) of any running back in Indianapolis. Washington didn't participate in the position drills, but with his standout testing results, he made his mark on the combine and could see his name climb some draft boards in the weeks ahead."
Mike Washington Jr. could be perfect replacement for Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones
Washington is an electric player who can break out a big play at any time, and he showed that time and time again last year for the Razorbacks. He had 1,070 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 6.4 yards per carry. Washington also added another 28 receptions for 226 yards and one touchdown in the process.
After his combine performance, Washington went from a Day 3 selection in the NFL to now being a Day 2 pick for any NFL team. His 4.33 speed had everyone buzzing about how fast and elusive he is, but all of that was already shown on tape at Arkansas, so it's been known that this guy can fly.
Imagine Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell having Washington on his offense and the many ways he can use him in the system. Washington can be a third-down back in a passing situation to run a route out of the backfield. Standing at 6-foot-1, there's the option to throw him in the slot to catch the defense off guard.
Most importantly, though, use his speed to get those outside runs going. Washington has proven that he can outrun most of the competition on the field, so getting the ball in his hands is crucial.
Minnesota might have other needs to address in the first round, but Washington should be a consideration for the Vikings when Day 2 strikes in April.