Raiders RB Mike Washington faces brighter spotlight after Ashton Jeanty injury

LAS VEGAS — The Raiders’ preseason finale against the 49ers on Thursday represents one final opportunity to answer some questions that have followed them throughout training camp.Some involve starting jobs that remain unsettled.Others concern young players who could be pressed into significant roles sooner than expected.And for a handful of Raiders, this is the last chance to make an impression before the roster is reduced to 53 players.Here are five things to watch:The Raiders appear to have avoided the worst with Ashton Jeanty’s ankle injury, but there is still uncertainty surrounding his availability for the beginning of the season.That pushes rookie Mike Washington Jr.

into a much brighter spotlight.The fourth-round pick has been one of the Raiders’ most impressive offensive players this preseason, displaying the vision, burst and big-play ability that made him an intriguing addition to the backfield.He is averaging 7.9 yards per carry through two preseason games and has already produced two runs of more than 30 yards.Now the Raiders need to determine whether Washington can do more than provide occasional explosiveness.Can he handle a larger workload? Can he protect the quarterback? Can he be trusted in the passing game? Can he carry out all the details required of a starting NFL running back? California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story Jeanty remains the centerpiece of the Raiders’ running game, but Washington could be asked to fill that role until he returns.Thursday will provide the clearest indication yet that he is ready for it.If Fernando Mendoza is going to make one final push to overtake Kirk Cousins as the Raiders’ season-opening quarterback, this is his opportunity.Klint Kubiak has repeatedly declined to name a starter, insisting...