Las Vegas Raiders first 2022 depth chart is full of surprises

Las Vegas Raiders first 2022 depth chart is full of surprises

Ameer Abdullah ahead of Zamir White

On Sunday, I asked one question for each unit on the offensive side of the ball. For the running backs, my question was if Zamir White could find playing time behind Josh Jacobs, Kenyan Drake and Brandon Bolden. I’d be lying if I said I saw Abdullah being above White on the depth chart too.

When the Raiders took Zamir White in the fourth-round of the 2022 NFL draft, they did so because he was the best player available in the eyes of the Silver and Black, as opposed to filling a need. Las Vegas even traded up for the Georgia back, leapfrogging the division rival LA Chargers to acquire White.

With that in mind, it made sense White would be prioritized above everyone who isn’t Jacobs, Drake, or the McDaniels favorite Brandon Bolden. However, one look at this depth chart shows that isn’t the case.

One thing to note here is White has missed ample time at practice, while Abdullah has looked fine. This could’ve played a large part in the Raiders’ decision to place Abdullah above White for the time being, with intent to switch the two if White shows up and reminds Las Vegas why they traded up to grab him in the draft. Alternatively, perhaps Abdullah has impressed that much.

Abdullah has totaled 1,574 rushing yards during his seven-seasons in the NFL. The veteran tailback has spent time with the Lions, Vikings and Panthers, logging 13 combined touchdowns throughout his career; 6 rushing, 7 receiving.

Whatever the reason for this move may be, it’s a surprising development. Will Abdullah continue being above White in the running back rotation once the regular season comes, or is it just a for now thing? We’ll find out.