Las Vegas Raiders: 5 position battles to watch after the 2020 NFL Draft
By Matt Holder
Second Running Back
Last year, the Raiders’ MVP was rookie running back, Josh Jacobs. Despite missing three games, he finished eighth in the NFL with 1,150 rushing yards and led the team’s skill position players with seven touchdowns. However, who the 2019 first-round pick’s backup will be is a question.
Jalen Richard has played a complementary role throughout his tenure with the Silver and Black, and he earned a new two-year $7 million contract this offseason. The former undrafted free agent is a versatile back who can not only tote the rock but also impact the passing game with his receiving skills and pass-blocking ability.
However, he has struggled with ball security in the past and his contract carries no guaranteed money next year, leaving the door open for someone else to take over the role.
During the draft, Las Vegas used its third selection on an offensive weapon, Lynn Bowden. In college, the University of Kentucky alum played quarterback, wide receiver, and running back, but Mayock stated that he’ll enter training camp as a running back. That amount of versatility could make Bowden a great third-down back.
My Prediction: Jalen Richard
While the former Wildcat is a swiss-army knife who can “do it all,” I still think the backup running back spot will go to Richard. The veteran’s ability to pass block will give him the nod and Hard Knocks showed how much Gruden covets backs who can help in pass protection. Since Bowden played so many positions in college, he didn’t get to refine this skill and I think he’ll serve more as a gadget player in year one.