Another highly-respected former New Orleans Saints player has signed with Denver. Broncos announced the signing of running back and special teams ace Dwayne Washington and waived injured defensive lineman Forrest Merrill. Since taking over as head coach, Sean Payton has brought several New Orleans Saints disciples to the AFC West team, including Washington.
Detroit selected Washington from the University of Washington as the 236th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft. For two seasons with the Lions, he rushed 110 times for 309 yards and a touchdown. New Orleans signed him to a free-agent contract in 2018 to complement the backfield tandem of Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram. However, Washington excelled on special teams and was a fan favorite during his five seasons with the Saints.
He completed his tenure in New Orleans with 66 game appearances, 58 rushing attempts, 283 yards, and four receptions for 25 yards. During his tenure on the special teams unit with the Saints, he participated in 1,184 snaps. On Jan. 4, New Orleans placed Washington on injured reserve and did not re-sign him during the offseason.
Dwayne Washington, 29, will compete to backup running backs Samaje Perrine and Javonte Williams against former Saints player Tony Jones Jr. and rookie Jaleel McLaughlin.
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