2021 NFL Draft: Running backs the Las Vegas Raiders should target
By Nick Bailey
Raiders 2021 running back draft targets: Jaret Patterson, Buffalo
I had to save my personal favorite choice in this draft for last. The University of Buffalo has been bittersweet for the Raiders, as in 2014, the then-Oakland Raiders drafted a future Hall of Famer in defensive end, Khalil Mack.
He was one of the best players in franchise history before he was traded to the Chicago Bears.
The Raiders should go back to Buffalo once again and take Jaret Patterson in this draft. Patterson has been extremely productive since taking over as the starting running back for the Bulls, posting three straight seasons with 1,000-plus yards.
Also, he has had double-digit touchdowns in each of the last three seasons, but this past season, he was on a whole other level.
In nearly half the carries he got in 2019, he came close to matching his run totals and did match his touchdown totals with 19. His 2020 season was marked by two very impressive games, as he had a 300-yard and four-touchdown game against Bowling Green, then followed it up the next week with a 400-plus yard and eight touchdown effort against Kent State.
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Even if the Las Vegas Raiders retain back up running back Devontae Booker, they should draft Jarret Patterson and let him sit, watch, and play sparingly for a season in the very least. His talent and running style is too good not to take a late-round flier on.