Oakland Raiders: Four UDFA’s who could earn a spot on the 53-man roster
By Kevin Saito
Nick Sharga, FB, Temple
There’s no denying the fact that Gruden loves his fullbacks. And, given the fact that he’s going to bring the power running game back to Oakland, it stands to reason that he’s going to want big bodied lead blockers who can blow open holes for his running backs.
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Enter former Temple Owl Nick Sharga.
Although Keith Smith figures to be the starting fullback in Gruden’s offense, depth is always key. That means Sharga will have every opportunity to make this squad. He will likely need to stand out on special teams and work his way into the offensive rotation, but the opportunity is there.
At Temple, Sharga didn’t touch the ball much at all. He’s not very versatile, when it comes to being an offensive weapon. In three years at Temple, Sharga had a grand total of 39 carries for 150 yards. Which means, we shouldn’t expect to see much from him, offensively speaking.
However, given his background as a linebacker, his willingness to dole out the punishment, and take on would-be tacklers head on, he – like Smith – could be key to helping unlock this offense’s true potential. After all, Marshawn Lynch was always more effective in Seattle with a punishing lead blocker in front of him, than without one.
To successfully get his offense where he wants it to be, Gruden is going to need effective lead blockers. Smith is obviously the guy in that role, but depth is almost mandatory. And it’s for the reason, Sharga has a good chance of making the team.