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Early prediction for the 2022 Raiders offensive skill positions

By Nicholas Yacenko

Dec 20, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Las Vegas Raiders offensive tackle Brandon Parker (75) and guard Alex Leatherwood (70) at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Las Vegas Raiders offensive tackle Brandon Parker (75) and guard Alex Leatherwood (70) at the line of scrimmage against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports /
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New England Patriots running back Brandon Bolden (25), scores a touchdown late in the fourth quarter against the Miami Dolphins during an NFL game at Hard Rock Stadium Sunday in Miami Gardens.New England Patriots V Miami Dolphins 32
New England Patriots running back Brandon Bolden (25), scores a touchdown late in the fourth quarter against the Miami Dolphins during an NFL game at Hard Rock Stadium Sunday in Miami Gardens.New England Patriots V Miami Dolphins 32 /

Early prediction for the 2022 Raiders offensive skill positions

Running Backs

  • Josh Jacobs
  • Kenyan Drake
  • Zamir White
  • Brandon Bolden
  • Jakob Johnson (Fullback)

The Raiders are going to adapt to a more running back by committee approach this season under McDaniels. For years, the Patriots used multiple running backs every season to keep them fresh and effective. This is a change from Josh Jacobs being the bell cow and having Kenyan Drake occasionally catch passes and running the ball.

Jacobs will still be the starting running back this season because he is a high-level starter when healthy. He also could have a big season and be more effective with fewer carries under McDaniels. The Raiders don’t seem inclined to re-sign Jacobs next season and McDaniels and Ziegler come from an organization that isn’t fond of paying big dollars for running backs.

Speaking of running backs that are making big money, the Raiders return Kenyan Drake. Drake is coming off of a major injury and is one of the highest-paid backup running backs in the NFL. His contract is guaranteed, therefore it made sense for the new regime to return him.

The hope is that Drake will have more success in a new system and then he can walk next season. The Raiders are likely going to run Jacobs and Drake into the ground and then let them go. Bolden is another former Patriot who plays a pivotal role on special teams and as a third-round back.

He will definitely have a role and will help the rest of the team get up to speed. White seems pegged to be a starter next season. As a 4th round pick, he is essentially guaranteed to make the team and should get some occasional carries. White has a ton of talent and could turn into a star. Johnson will be the fullback on a team that should continue to utilize a fullback regularly.

Johnson is a good player who will get the job done.

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