Oakland Raiders: Running Back Options Not Named Lynch Or Peterson
By Kevin Saito
It’s possible – though not entirely likely – that Fournette falls to the Raiders. The running back position has been devalued in recent years as the league has become far more pass oriented and teams are less inclined to take a running back in the first round because of it.
But passing league or not, there are certain talents that emerge who can’t be denied. Though Fournette’s star has slightly dimmed since the Combine, it’s very likely that he’s still going somewhere in the first round.
Although the Raiders have big needs on the defensive side of the ball, the departure of Latavius Murray means the team is going to need a bellcow back. Fournette could be ideal in the role.
At 6’1”, 230 pounds, he’s a battering ram. He is known for his power and willingness to punish would-be tacklers. He’s also known for not being overly elusive, preferring to take the contact. While it makes for some brilliant highlight reel plays, it also could lead to a shortened career and possible missed games due to injury.
The knock on Fournette sounds much like the knock on Murray at times – too little patience. Doesn’t wait for plays to develop and cutback lanes to open. But Murray developed and to an extent, flourished in Oakland’s offensive system. Fournette could as well.
If he happens to be there at 24, you almost have to take him since he would help upgrade the backfield. He would be the thunder to Richard and Washington’s lightning and Oakland’s offense might not even miss a beat without Murray.