Darren McFadden was aware that he needed to put up big numbers in 2013. The Oakland Raiders running back was entering a contract year and after seasons of inconsistencies, he needed to prove that he could be a real offensive threat. However, he did the exact opposite, spending much of season injured. Now, general manager Reggie McKenzie is confirming what everyone was expecting.
"Darren's going to be a free agent and there's been communication with his agent," McKenzie said, via ESPN.com. "He's going to see what his market is. And that's the thing, when you're talking about the games that he's missed, he has no idea -- and when I say 'He,' I'm talking about his agent -- he has no idea what his market value will be and I couldn't tell you what the other 31 teams think."
McFadden would be wise to set his expectations low in free agency. Last season proved there was really no market for running backs with health issues unless they agreed to a one-year contract. The former Arkansas standout only appeared in 10 games this season. In total, he has missed 19 of his past 41 games, totaling 29 missed games in his six-year career. He put up just 379 yards on 3.3 yards per carry in 2013. The Raiders are ready to move on.
McKenzie noted he is hopeful to re-sign Rashad Jennings who took over for the absent McFadden. He totaled 733 yards and six touchdowns on a less-than-average offensive line. The Raiders are confident that he could be a true starter in the coming years. He could also end up being a much cheaper option for the Raiders.
So where does that leave McFadden? The Miami Dolphins could be interested. After letting Reggie Bush leave in free agency, the Dolphins went young with Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas. The result was finishing 26th in total rushing yards. Adding McFadden is certainly intriguing. The running back could possibly just be seeking a fresh start in a new atmosphere to return to his dominating ways.
The Cleveland Browns are another option. The team traded away Trent Richardson early in the season and have been left with nothing but aging veterans. McFadden could be a welcomed presence. The pressure would certainly be on as the Browns are expected to start a rookie quarterback next season.
All signs point to McFadden not returning to Oakland despite what his agent presents to McKenzie. If he is not careful, his chances of playing in the NFL next season could be just as slim.
