Raiders: Ranking the top 5 running backs in franchise history

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Raiders (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

The Las Vegas Raiders have had some impressive running backs play for them over the years.

The Oakland Raiders’ rebrand as the Las Vegas Raiders, coupled with the NFL’s standstill due to uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, makes this the perfect time to take a trip down memory lane.

Last week, I wrote an article ranking the top four quarterbacks in Raiders’ history. Today, I have a top-five list of all-time running backs. Does your favorite Oakland/Los Angeles rusher make the cut? Let’s dive in!

5. Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders

Surprised to see Darren McFadden in the top five? Frankly, so am I.

This spot was the most difficult to fill with players like Napoleon Kaufman and Marv Hubbard also deserving of serious consideration. However, I give the nod to the former fourth overall pick.

McFadden’s 4,247 rushing yards with the Raiders keep pace with both Kaufman (4,792) and Hubbard (4,394). His 25 rushing touchdowns were also the most amongst the trio (Kaufman 12 and Hubbard 22).

The combination of McFadden’s high draft status, amazing potential, and frustrating injury history make him feel like a bust. However, the former Arkansas Razorbacks superstar actually compiled a solid seven-year career in silver and black.

When he was on the field, he was able to bring a big-play ability to what was an otherwise stagnant Oakland offense.

His best season came in 2010 when he flashed his near-Heisman potential to the tune of 1,157 rushing yards and 507 receiving yards. This remains one of the best single seasons any Raiders’ running back has ever compiled.

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