The Raiders 2019 Feature Running Back will Come via the Draft
While a lot has been made of the Oakland Raiders lack of pass catchers, the team’s running game will also be a focal point of the offseason. As a whole the unit ran for just 1,628 yards in 2018, good for 25th in the NFL.
The Raiders are likely to lose both Marshawn Lynch and Doug Martin to retirement and free agency respectively. Jalen Richard, the team’s pass-catching back is a restricted free agent and has a decent chance of returning in 2019. But even if Richard does return, the Raiders need a true feature back who could help carry the offense.
Looking at the free agent running back class, some names do pop out. Obviously Le’Veon Bell will be the most sought after free agent runner. However, he reportedly turned down a $70 million contract with the Steelers, meaning he is going to ask for a monstrous deal. The Raiders may not think that is worth it. Players like Mark Ingram or Latavius Murray could also make sense, but again they are veteran runners who could potentially ask for a large contract. Finally, players like Tevin Coleman, Alex Collins or Jay Ajayi could make sense, but all carry bagage and may not succeed as a true RB1.
As the Raiders look to shore up their running game, the NFL Draft makes the most sense. While there’s no Saquon Barkleys this year, there are plenty of talented runners who could help Oakland immediately. One of those running backs is Alabama’s Josh Jacobs.
Recently Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller mocked Jacobs to the Raiders with the 27th overall pick. He wrote:
The Raiders need to get better at virtually every position, including running back. Jacobs will take pressure off quarterback Derek Carr and should have plenty of holes to run through given the strength of the team’s offensive line.
But even if Jacobs isn’t the pick, many other draft-bound running backs could make sense early in the draft for the Raiders. According to Walter Football, at least 18 running backs could be worth a third or higher round pick. Adding a player in the draft would not only be cheaper, but could potentially give the Raiders a more explosive and productive running back.
Oakland will likely start over when it comes to their running game in 2019. While they may not use a first rounder on a tailback, it’s certain that they’ll be adding to their running game through the draft. Whichever running back the Raiders do end up taking should be the team’s feature back in 2019 and beyond.
