Las Vegas Raiders: Grading 2021 week 2 offensive free agent additions

Las Vegas Raiders: Grading 2021 week 2 offensive free agent additions

Theo Riddick – Running Back, Las Vegas Raiders

In his heyday with the Detroit Lions, Theo Riddick was one of the premier third-down backs in the NFL. Over 6 years with the Lions, 5 of which where he actually saw the field consistently, Riddick racked up 285 catches for 2,238 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Riddick’s primary use in Detroit was as a receiver out of the backfield and that is where he made his name. The Raiders had Riddick on the practice squad thanks to the expanded rosters due to COVID-19 protocols and he featured in just four games for the Silver and Black.

He made little impact and had just 11 touches total but clearly, Gruden sees him as a potential weapon given the decision to bring him back on a one-year deal worth around $1 million with a dead cap of just $50k if he is released. Some believe that this move will be followed by the release of third-string RB Jalen Richard who comes with a $3.5 million salary and no cap hit if he is let go.

Richard is only two years younger than Riddick and he was similarly ineffective and underutilized in 2020 so the move would make sense to clear some cap space. Riddick and Richard could serve similar roles but neither of which should be expected to make a huge impact in 2021.

Grade: C+