Raiders: 2022 two-deep prediction for the offensive skill positions
![HENDERSON, NEVADA - JULY 29: Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders prepares to pass during training camp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on July 29, 2021 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images) HENDERSON, NEVADA - JULY 29: Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders prepares to pass during training camp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on July 29, 2021 in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fjustblogbaby-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2018-2F08-2F1331321524-850x560-2901245a9a6ae6b91d32e02b75c9f20d302632ab96ccc2c35fe9d2e44877f5ae.jpg)
Raiders: 2022 two-deep prediction for the offensive skill positions
3rd Down RB: Brandon Bolden
Let me start by saying there will be no second players here, only the starting third-down running back and slot receiver.
Earlier, when talking about running backs, I spoke of the logjam of talent on Las Vegas’ roster. I mentioned Josh Jacobs, Kenyan Drake, and even the rookie Zamir White. Still, there’s another running back who I’ve yet to mention: Brandon Bolden.
Bolden is another Raiders’ player who’s familiar with Josh McDaniels offense. Spending eight-years in New England, Bolden knows the scheme he finds himself in like the back of his hand. This has led the former Patriot to 1,206-yards on the ground, with an additional 889 through the air while playing under McDaniels.
Bolden’s most successful campaign was his most recent one, piling up 226-yards rushing, and another 405 by way of receiving. The undrafted free agent in 2012 dropped only two passes, and earned a quarterback rating of 106.2 when targeting.
Given Bolden’s extreme familiarity in McDaniels’ offense, plus his effectiveness in the passing game, it’s hard to imagine he won’t be the Raiders’ third-down back this upcoming season.