The Washington Huskies are facing a major challenge as they prepare for the 2026 season: for the first time since joining the Big Ten, they'll need to compete against the conference's elite rushing attacks without one of the most dynamic running backs in program history.
Jonah Coleman, who powered through defenses for 15 touchdowns last season, has taken his talents to the NFL after being selected by the Denver Broncos. But the losses don't stop there. Jordan Washington, last season's leading returning rusher among running backs, is sidelined indefinitely after suffering a neck injury on April 4 that required emergency transport from Husky Stadium via ambulance.
"I can't put it into words. I mean, heartbroken," running backs coach Scottie Graham said, reflecting on the emotional toll of seeing Washington hospitalized. "Had a mix of emotions going to the hospital."
Washington's status will be reevaluated this summer, but even if he returns, the running back room has undergone a complete transformation since the Huskies' 38-10 victory over Boise State in the LA Bowl. Adam Mohammed, who contributed 523 rushing yards and five touchdowns in 2025, has transferred to California. Beyond quarterback Demond Williams Jr.—who added 611 yards and six touchdowns on the ground last season—there's little certainty in Washington's ground game.
To make matters worse, two of the top candidates to fill Coleman's shoes—senior Jayden Limar and fifth-year back Trey Cooley—are both sidelined this spring with injuries. Williams acknowledged the tough timing, calling it "unfortunate" that the running back room is so banged up just over four months before the season opener against Washington State on September 5.
"I think we've been blessed to have backs like Jonah and Adam the past two years, that have been able to stay healthy through this period," Williams said. "But we understand that it's football at the end of the day. Things happen. And we're ready to bounce back, next person up."
That "next person up" mentality is shared by Graham and head coach Jedd Fisch, who are both placing their faith in redshirt freshman Quaid C. With a roster full of question marks but a culture built on resilience, the Huskies are determined to prove they can still run with the Big Ten's best—even without their star backfield.