Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each offensive position in 2021

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 03: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on January 03, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 03: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on January 03, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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Dec 26, 2020; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Kenyan Drake (41) following the game against the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Billy Hardiman-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each offensive position in 2021

Running Back: How will Kenyan Drake fit in?

Josh Jacobs has been Las Vegas’ feature back since he was drafted in 2019, and even though Jacobs has been great, he has also struggled with injuries from time to time. This makes it crucial to have a good backup running back to relieve or fill in for Jacobs when needed.

Enter Kenyan Drake, who was signed to a hefty contract in the 2021 offseason.

Drake will likely split some time with Jacobs, creating a dynamic one-two punch in the Las Vegas backfield. In this scenario, Jacobs will likely be the team’s power back who makes moves in space. Drake, who also has impressive movement, will be more of a speed back and pass catcher.

The latter use is where Drake should be the biggest difference-maker for the offense, as Carr tends to look for his backs when plays start to break down.

Also, look for Drake to be used more creatively than just a dump-off pass option. Gruden loves to experiment, so watch for drake on wheel routes, screens, and maybe even lined up as a receiver.

Answer: He’ll add a jolt of speed to the backfield and passing game.