Oakland Raiders: 2014 Positional Grades, Jack Del Rio Thoughts

Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray (28) is tackled by Denver Broncos strong safety David Bruton (30) and defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) and middle linebacker Steven Johnson (53) in the third quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 47-14. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Running Backs: C+

The end of the season revelation that was Latavius Murray really brought up this grade, but it simultaneously showed that the offensive line was adequate. McFadden finally stayed healthy for an entire year and did very little, although his obviously helped Murray develop his pass protection abilities, and towards the end of the year he started showing some explosion. Jones-Drew was a disappointment, but I think he can still carve out a niche for himself as a third down back type. He did not show a physical inability, he just seemed to lack confidence, but he can still do some things in space. Reece needs to be removed as a full back and shifted permanently to a utility player of sorts which would include regular carries as a half back.

Tight Ends: C

This position was one of constant confusion for me. Watching this offense was frustrating week in and week out and Mychal Rivera was the most underutilized player on this team. The group on the whole lacks any blocking efficiency and the scheme Olson was using with the tight end isolation blocks around the formation really made the group look bad. The return of Kasa should absolutely boost the blocking for the group, but the Raiders need a balanced veteran who can do both and to make Rivera a constant threat in this offense.

Next: Positional Grades: Offensive Line Wideouts