Las Vegas Raiders: 3 offensive gambles that didn't pay off in 2021

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Oct 24, 2021; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders running back Kenyan Drake (23) celebrates after a 4-yard touchdown run against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. The Raiders defeated the Eagles 33-22. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders: 3 offensive gambles that didn’t pay off in 2021

No. 3: Paying big money to Kenyan Drake

Kenyan Drake was supposed to come into the fold in 2021 and provide depth behind Josh Jacobs, who has struggled to stay healthy throughout his short NFL career. Leaning on such a young back has proven costly to Jacobs, who made his first Pro Bowl in 2020, but really struggled to stay at 100 percent down the stretch.

While Drake has had his moments, it has been a pretty ho-hum first season in Las Vegas, and one that was ended with an injury. The Raiders likely could have used the money they paid Drake elsewhere, as he finished his first season with only a little over 250 yards rushing, nearly 300 yards receiving, and three touchdowns.

Apr 11, 2019, Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders general manager Mike Mayock speaks at a press conference at the Raiders practice facility prior to the 2019 NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

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Overall, all three of these gambles did not pay off for the Raiders, who goes into today’s contest with Cleveland looking lost on the offensive side of the ball. The front office did a nice job revamping the defense, but when it comes to the offense, they swung and missed way too many times this offseason.

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