New York Jets running back Leon Washington was carted off the field in Oakland with what appeared to be a serious ankle injury during the first quarter of today’s game.
Washington was injured on his first carry when a Raiders player rolled on his ankle in a pile-up. TV replays showed Washington’s lower legs bending in a way that lower legs aren’t supposed to bend. The injury was reminiscent of the broken leg that ended Joe Theismann’s career, and it would be shocking if Washington isn’t out for the season, if not longer.
As Bob Glauber of Newsday pointed out on Twitter, the injury is especially painful for Washington because he was seeking a new contract before the season and failed to reach an agreement.
Washington is an important part of the Jets’ offense and special teams. He entered today’s game with 71 carries for 325 yards, 15 catches for 131 yards and 16 kickoff returns for 385 yards.
Late in the first quarter, the Jets lead the Raiders 14-0.
