Oakland Raiders: Top running backs to target in 2019 NFL free agency

Mark Ingram, New Orleans Saints

As crazy as it may sound, there’s a decent chance the duo of Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara splits this offseason. The New Orleans Saints may not want to re-sign Ingram, who will probably be looking for a larger role on the open market.

Well, the Raiders can offer him exactly that.

Right now, Lynch is headed for free agency and possibly retirement. Martin is also a free agent, although his odds of returning to the Raiders is higher than Lynch’s. Behind them, there isn’t much in Oakland besides third-down backs and unproven talent. Ingram would certainly be a big upgrade on any of the aforementioned options.

If signed by Gruden and Co., Ingram would immediately step in as the Raiders’ workhorse running back. From there, they could let Martin walk and bring back Richard as the passing-down complement. Ingram would give them a dangerous threat in the backfield who can offer the physical presence Lynch struggled to bring while constantly battling injuries.

Signing Ingram will obviously be more expensive than Peterson after making $3.05 million a season ago. At the same time, considering the running back position’s current value, a huge raise probably wouldn’t be necessary.

If the Raiders want a quality starter who can push for 1,000 rushing yards without breaking the bank, Ingram is the guy to target.