Seahawks running back Leon Washington is progressing ahead of schedule and may be back by the start of training camp, Mike Sando reports.

Washington broke his tibia and fibula in 2009 and missed the final nine games of the season.

The Seahawks acquired Washington from the Jets in April. Seattle sent the 139th pick in the draft, which turned out to be running back John Conner, to the Jets for Washington and the 236th pick (defensive end Dexter Davis).

Washington played all 16 games in each of his first three seasons before missing nine in 2009. Washington’s best season came in 2008 when he rushed 76 times for 448 yards (5.9 yards per carry) and six touchdowns. He also caught 47 passes for 355 yards and two touchdowns.

Washington has been especially effective in the return game. He took three of his 47 kickoff returns back for touchdowns in 2007 and piled up 2,337 all-purpose yards in 2008.