For five seasons, Darren McFadden has been the face of the Oakland Raiders rushing attack that has seen highs and a lot of lows. 2010 was a high after the running back put out over 1,000 yards on the season. 2012 was a real low. Behind a struggling offensive line, McFadden managed a career-low 58.9 yards per game and Oakland finished ranking 28th in the league in rushing. However, McFadden is promising a new run game and new running back in 2013.
McFadden knows he put together a rather disappointing 2012 season in Oakland. He is not exactly happy about it either.
"There's always going to be things that gets your blood boiling. But last year was last yaer. It's something I put behind me. We're moving forward, and I'm looking forward to a new season," McFadden told the Bay Area News Group.
Part of that new season will feature a re-energized McFadden. After a slew of offseason practices, beat reporters noted that the running back appeared much more explosive and dynamic during OTAs and minicamps. A lot of that has to do with new offensive coordinator Greg Olson re-designing the offensive line to help the rushing attack. McFadden loves his new coordinator, gushing how the system fits his natural skill set.
"It's a downhill offense. That's one of the things I like about it. I'm the type of guy I like to get going downhill, so I'm looking forward to it. I think it's going to be a great fit for our team. It's a great feeling that they have that confidence in me, so I want to go out there and prove to them on the field that I can do it," McFadden said.
The running back is entering a crucial year in Oakland. It is a contract year as McFadden is due $5.8 million in salary. General manager Reggie McKenzie is busy stabilizing the salary cap in hopes of getting McFadden signed to a contract extension at some point. He needs to stay healthy and focused if he hopes on remaining a Raider. McFadden has battled injuries over the years but cannot afford to get sidetracked in 2013.
The Raiders are starving for an explosive offense and all of that could start with an improve McFadden in 2013. If he can have a return to form season like 2010, where he recorded seven touchdowns, he could see a favorable raise in his future.
