2019 Oakland Raiders position group preview: Running Backs

By Kenny King | Jul 3, 2019

OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 24: Jalen Richard #30 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates with Doug Martin #28 after a three-yard touchdown run against the Denver Broncos during their NFL game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on December 24, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Robert Reiners/Getty Images) /

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OAKLAND, CA – SEPTEMBER 17: Jalen Richard #30 of the Oakland Raiders carries the ball against the New York Jets during the fourth quarter of their NFL football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 17, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Jalen Richard

Jalen “Rocket” Richard was arguably the Raiders breakout player of the year last season, often considered a “safety net” for quarterback Derek Carr. Richard finished third in receiving for the Raiders in 2018 catching 68 passes for 607 yards and averaged 8.9 yards per catch.

While initially Richard was rarely used in the run game, when Marshawn Lynch went down with a groin injury, he earned more carries and was effective when utilized properly and averaged 4.7 yards per carry. Richard has transformed more into the role of scatback in Jon Gruden’s offense and has the speed and strength to line up almost anywhere on the field.

During the offseason, Richard signed his 2nd round tender, ensuring his future as a Raider in 2019. He is a guy who can bring a nice wrinkle to the offense, and should once again play a role in what the Raiders do offensively this upcoming season.

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