The Oakland Raiders are still figuring out their running back spot heading into 2019, but they made a nice move to add talent to the group on Thursday.
The Oakland Raiders running back group added another member on Thursday, as the team agreed on a one-year deal with former New York Jets back Isaiah Crowell. For the Raiders, this brings in a back with great versatility, who will team well with Jalen Richard and Chris Warren next season.
Of course, Oakland likely is not done making moves at the position, as they still have to figure out what they plan to do with Doug Martin and Marshawn Lynch. This week, Jon Gruden stated that the door is open for Lynch, but you have to start thinking about where he fits with the addition of Crowell.
During his time with the New York Jets, Crowell was a steady back for the team, showing he can make plays happen out of the backfield, and in the passing game. Those are the kinds of back Gruden loves to use, and he definitely wanted to add Crowell when the team brought him in on Thursday.
Adam Schefter from ESPN reported the move.
Raiders and former Jets’ RB Isaiah Crowell reached agreement on a one-year deal worth up to $2.5 million, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 28, 2019
There is still a lot of work to be done with this roster, but the Raiders have certainly been active this offseason. They are building a solid roster after going 4-12 during the 2018 NFL season, and you have to think Gruden is tired of losing after returning to the sidelines this past season.
Linebacker Brandon Marshall is also still in the building, so this may not be the last big move the Raiders make on Thursday. Crowell adds a solid dimension to this offense, and you have to think that all these added weapons will mean a big season for veteran Derek Carr, who turned 28 today.