The Las Vegas Raiders faced significant challenges in running the ball last season. The struggles were so severe that the Silver and Black made the unconventional decision to select a running back in the first round of the NFL draft. Now, the team may have the potential for a special duo.
In case you forgot, not only did general manager John Spytek select Ashton Jeanty with the sixth pick, but he also signed Raheem Mostert in free agency. The former Pro Bowl running back is not merely a “depth piece”; rather, he is in Sin City to compete, and as head coach Pete Carroll hinted, he will play a crucial role. Carroll addressed this potential while speaking to the media this week
“I love having multiple guys play. I’m not relying on one guy. Thunder and Lightning back in the day, whatever it takes to get it done,” said Carroll. “We’re going to let the guys play for their playtime. Raheem, I love having him. He’s an experienced guy; he’s been a great speedster for years. We’ve defended him for years and he’s been a nightmare for us.”
The Raiders RB duo of Raheem Mostert and Ashton Jeanty: “Thunder and Lightning”
If you’re not too familiar with Mostert, the five-foot-ten and 205-pound tailback was a 1,000-yard rusher not that long ago (2023); it was a season where he reached the endzone 18 times. With a career rushing yard per attempt average of five, Mostert isn’t just some scrub–with Chip Kelly calling the plays, we could see him recapture some of that form with the Raiders. However, it’s undeniable that Jeanty is currently leading this now-look offense. In fact, he’s the clear Day 1 starter, barring any setbacks.
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All of that said, we know Carroll values competition across the roster, and the running back position is no exception. Behind Mostert, Zamir White and Sincere McCormick are also competing for playing time. It will be fascinating to see how things develop once training camp begins. Who knows? Perhaps the Raiders will discover a combination that finally addresses one of the team’s most pressing issues.
*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images