Oakland Raiders: Top running backs to target in 2019 NFL free agency
Le’Veon Bell, Pittsburgh Steelers
Surprisingly the riskiest option on this list, Le’Veon Bell is also the most exciting. And yet, he’d also cost the Raiders the most despite not seeing a single snap throughout the 2018 NFL campaign.
One of the league’s most talented running backs, Bell sat out this past season after failing to get the contract offer he felt he deserved from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now that the relationship has completely deteriorated, odds are the Steelers let him test free agency. With that said, it’s unlikely he gets the high-priced deal he’s anticipating.
Still, Bell won’t come cheap. And considering his expected price tag, it’s a dangerous deal to make for a player who hasn’t seen the field in over a year. The injury history and character concerns don’t help either. All that aside, though, adding the talent Bell brings to the table could be a game-changer for the Raiders as they look to turn things around in 2019.
Not only does Bell boast elite vision and patience as a runner, but he’s also an outstanding receiver out of the backfield. Look no further than his two All-Pro seasons (2014, 2017) for evidence of this, as he eclipsed 1,900 total yards in both campaigns.
Next. Raiders' top DE targets during 2019 free agency. dark
The opportunity to sign an elite offensive talent doesn’t come along often. However, even if Bell is interested in joining the Raiders, Gruden must proceed with caution. The talent and upside is there with the soon-to-be 27-year-old back, but there are red flags as well.