The Oakland Raiders may look at adding a running back this offseason to help add depth behind Latavius Murray and Roy Helu and players like Matt Forte, Arian Foster, Marshawn Lynch and Chris Ivory could be potential targets.
The Raiders took some major steps as a franchise this season with the development of Derek Carr and the play of Khalil Mack and Amari Cooper and that could spark some free agent moves for the team. Murray had a strong season in his first year as a starter, but overall the team ranked in the bottom half of the league in rushing and that could put running backs in focus for the team in free agency or the draft. Helu was signed to be a solid backup option for Murray, but he was not nearly productive enough for the Raiders.
Players like Matt Forte, Chris Ivory and LeGarrette Blount are hitting free agency and could be targets, while Arian Foster and Marshawn Lynch could be available if they are released from their current teams. According to the Houston Chronicle, the Texans are considering releasing Foster this offseason, as the running back is coming into the final year of his contract and dealt with multiple injury issues last season. Lynch also could be available if he doesn't return, as reports have the Seahawks likely cutting Lynch with his cap hit at over $11 million for next season.
Lynch also dealt with injuries last season and had his worst year for the Seahawks since coming to Seattle. While both Lynch and Foster are coming off of injury seasons, they could be strong fits for the Raiders if they are healthy. The Raiders signed Helu to be an option out of the backfield and to handle third downs, but he had a very disappointing season. Foster is one of the best in the league at catching the ball out of the backfield and that could make him a target for the Raiders.
Matt Forte is another option with a similar skill set, as he has put up some of the best receiving numbers in the league as a running back during his time with the Bears. Chris Simms at Bleacher Report said that Foster could be a great fit behind Murray next season if he can prove he is healthy, as the Raiders may think about cutting Helu in the offseason. Murray had over 1000 yards last season, but the Raiders need more depth at the position and this offseason they have a number of options they could look at.