Struggles in the Running Game
The Raiders grappled with a deficient run game last season and continue to face significant gaps at the position. The team’s leading rusher remains available on the market, while recent additions have not provided the necessary stability. The current backfield includes a mix of players whose performances have been inconsistent or limited by minimal opportunities.
Challenges in the Backfield
Among those on the roster, Raheem Mostert, a veteran nearing 33, is expected to contribute but offers limited reliability as a long-term solution. Other running backs on the roster have shown flashes of promise, yet their sample sizes have been small or marred by errors. The combination of an underwhelming performance from some and an injury-plagued history for others highlights the urgent need for reinforcement at the position.
Potential Impact of J. K. Dobbins
J. K. Dobbins emerges as a compelling candidate to fill the void. Despite a career intermittently disrupted by injuries, he demonstrated resilience by playing in 13 games last season while posting career-highs in both rushing and receiving yards, along with scoring nine times on the ground. His performance suggests that, under the right circumstances, he could evolve into a reliable, starting-caliber running back who would complement the offensive strategy led by quarterback Geno Smith and guided by a new offensive coordinator.
Contract Considerations and Strategic Fit
Dobbins is expected to be available as a free agent with a projected two-year deal worth $8.1 million. Although his injury history raises some concerns, the current state of the Raiders’ running back roster makes it difficult to be overly selective. Even if negotiations result in a shorter or less expensive contract, acquiring Dobbins could represent a significant upgrade and help solidify the running game in the long term. The move could bring much-needed depth and balance to an offense in need of a dependable ground presence.
