While running back is far from the most pressing need on the Las Vegas Raiders roster, they need to find Josh Jacobs a solid backup. Luckily, the 2021 crop of free-agent ball carriers is a loaded one. With all the good options available, the Silver and Black should avoid these ones.
The Raiders should avoid signing these FA running backs
James Conner
After an impressive 2018 season, where he recorded 973 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, James Conner hasn’t approached that production since. Due to injuries and Covid-19, he started just 11 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020. Conner could command about $5.4 million in the open market, making him the 13th highest paid at his position. He may be best suited as a complementary piece, but the Raiders need that money to go other places.
Lamar Miller
Early in his career, Miller was a solid running back but those days are long ago. After posting 973 rushing yards and five touchdowns in 2018, he has only played in one game since. Due to consistent injury problems, he bounced between three teams in 2020, seeing only two catches for six yards. The Raiders would be wise to avoid the injury-stricken back.
Leonard Fournette
Fournette profiles well as Josh Jacobs’ backup. However, he is likely to command more money than the Raiders should spend. After a fantastic playoff run where he displayed his abilities as a pass-catcher and helped the Tampa Bay Buccaneers win a Super Bowl, Fournette is likely staying put. In the event he leaves, Las Vegas should not spend the money required to get him.
While the Raiders should pass on adding these players, the market will be robust with talent at the position. Adding a solid runner behind Jacobs as a compliment could really bolster the offense. However, the Silver and Black’s biggest questions lie on defense and that is where most of the money should go.
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