The Denver Broncos have welcomed another Sean Payton pupil to its backfield stable, signing former Saints running back Dwayne Washington, the team announced Wednesday.
In a corresponding transaction, the Broncos waived/injured defensive lineman Forrest Merrill, who lasted just 11 days with the organization.
Washington, 29, was a 2016 seventh-round pick of the Lions who spent his first two NFL seasons in Detroit before a five-year tenure in New Orleans — four of which came under Payton.
Primarily a special teams contributor, the 6-foot-1, 223-pound Washington product has appeared in 83 career games, tallying 693 yards from scrimmage (592 rushing) and one touchdown on 184 touches (168 carries).
"He's physical, and he's got really good speed," Payton said of Washington in 2019. "I think those things stood out when you're watching him. He's a guy that knows what we're doing."
Washington — though perhaps merely a camp body — will compete with fellow ex-Saint Tony Jones Jr., undrafted rookie Jaleel McLaughlin, and second-year man Tyler Badie for the Broncos' RB3 role behind Javonte Williams and Samaje Perine.
Washington's addition is likely related to the now-uncertain status of Badie, who missed Wednesday's practice due to an undisclosed injury.
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