Husky Running Back Corps Keeps Getting Younger

With injuries and transfers, Washington's backfield is now stocked with freshmen and redshirt freshmen.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:41pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The University of Washington's running back corps has gotten significantly younger this spring, with sophomore Jordan Washington, the team's top returning rusher, suffering an injury that forced him to leave practice in an ambulance. The Huskies are now left with only freshmen and redshirt freshmen in the backfield, as they try to find replacements for departed starters Jonah Coleman and Adam Mohammed.

Why it matters

The Huskies' running game is a major question mark heading into the 2026 season, as they must replace their top two rushers from last year. The youth and inexperience in the backfield could make it challenging for Washington to maintain its offensive production, especially early in the season.

The details

With Jordan Washington injured, the Huskies' top running backs are now redshirt freshman Quaid Carr and freshmen Ansu Sanoe, Brian Bonner Jr., and D'Aryhian Clemons, a converted cornerback. The young backs struggled to find running room against the Huskies' aggressive defense during Saturday's spring practice scrimmage. Newly promoted assistant head coach Scottie Graham is high on the speed of the young group, but acknowledges they will need time to develop.

  • On Saturday, Jordan Washington was taken from Husky Stadium by ambulance after suffering an injury during practice.
  • Oregon senior transfer Jayden Limar, who recently had ankle surgery, watched practice while recovering on a cart.
  • Troy senior transfer Trey Cooley, recovering from knee surgery, has not yet joined the Huskies and will not participate until fall camp.

The players

Jordan Washington

A 5-foot-10, 181-pound sophomore running back from Long Beach, California, who was the Huskies' top returning rusher entering spring practice.

Quaid Carr

A redshirt freshman running back who is now the most experienced member of the Huskies' backfield.

Ansu Sanoe

A freshman running back from the Portland suburbs who is listed at 6-foot-2 and 241 pounds.

Brian Bonner Jr.

A freshman running back who is getting indoctrinated to UW football.

D'Aryhian Clemons

A redshirt freshman who has converted from cornerback to running back.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Control your God's gift!”

— Scottie Graham, Running Backs Coach

“They're extremely fast -- we could probably win the 4X100 NCAA [track] title. They're moving. They're different. One of them will step up.”

— Scottie Graham, Running Backs Coach

What’s next

Oregon senior transfer Jayden Limar and Troy senior transfer Trey Cooley, who are both recovering from injuries, will join the Huskies' backfield when they are healthy and able to participate in fall camp.

The takeaway

The Huskies' running game faces significant uncertainty heading into the 2026 season, as they must replace their top two rushers from last year and are now relying on a very young and inexperienced group of backs. The coaching staff is high on the speed of the new group, but they will need time to develop and adjust to the college game.