The composition of the Las Vegas Raiders’ running back unit is set to undergo significant changes in 2024, especially with Josh Jacobs departing for the Green Bay Packers. While Zamir White showed promise as a backup last season when Jacobs was injured, he has only started four games in his career.
For added veteran depth, the Raiders are being urged to consider signing free agent running back Jerick McKinnon, as suggested by Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report. McKinnon’s experience as a receiving back could prove invaluable, having caught 94 passes over the past three seasons. Moreover, his familiarity with the AFC West and insights into division rival Chiefs, coupled with his two Super Bowl victories with Kansas City, add to his appeal.
Despite mostly serving as a backup throughout his career, including stints with the Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers, McKinnon’s arrival wouldn’t threaten White’s starting role but could challenge Ameer Abdullah’s position. While McKinnon brings veteran solidity, his skill set overlaps somewhat with existing Raiders’ options.
White, potentially the long-term solution at running back for the Raiders, still needs to demonstrate consistency. Trevor Sikkema’s assessment of the Raiders’ running back group as the second-weakest in the NFL underscores the uncertainty surrounding their effectiveness in 2024.
Head coach Antonio Pierce intends to rotate running backs throughout the season, moving away from a traditional bellcow approach, with White likely assuming the lead role but not replicating Jacobs’ workload.
As the Raiders prepare for the upcoming season, their running back strategy aims to harness the strengths of multiple contributors, balancing physical demands and maximizing the talents within their evolving backfield.
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