
24/07/2025
The Washington Huskies have boasted numerous exceptional running backs throughout the past century. However, Napoleon Kaufman stands out as the most favored.
Kaufman was one of the most dynamic offensive players in the program's history. Despite facing a bowl ban and being a projected first-round pick, Kaufman chose to remain for his senior year, demonstrating his commitment to Coach Lambright and the program.
Kaufman started in a Rose Bowl and nearly returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown as a freshman in another. Throughout his Huskies career, Kaufman accumulated 4,041 yards with 33 touchdowns and an impressive 5.7 yards-per-carry average.
He earned three First-Team All-Pac-10 running back honors, twice received All-American running back recognition, and won the 1994 Pac-10 Player of the Year award. Kaufman was also a member of the 1991 National Championship Huskies team.
The Oakland Raiders drafted him in the first round, and he played for the team from 1995 to 2000 before retiring to establish his own church. With the Raiders, Kaufman rushed for 4,792 yards with 12 touchdowns, caught five touchdowns, and returned a kickoff for a touchdown.
He later led Bishop O'Dowd to a California State championship in 2016. Kaufman served as the Raiders' team chaplain from 2012 to 2020, when the team relocated to Las Vegas.
Currently, he is the senior pastor at The Well Christian Community Church in Livermore, California, where his wife also serves as a pastor, and NFL Hall of Famer Rod Woodson, along with other former teammates, are members of the congregation.