The Oakland Raiders have a number of free agent targets they can go after this offseason, as players like DeMarco Murray, Steven Jackson, Reggie Bush, DeAngelo Williams, Adrian Peterson and Mark Ingram could be available at running back and if Darren McFadden doesn't return in free agency, those names all could be options along with Marshawn Lynch, Jeremy Maclin, Michael Crabtree, Terrance Knighton, Brian Hartline, Randall Cobb and Julius Thomas for the Raiders.
The Raiders have Darren McFadden hitting the free agent market and he is not expected to return to the team. The Raiders like what they have in young RB Latavius Murray, but it's likely the team adds a veteran on the market to help share the load. According to NFL.com, DeMarco Murray could be a main target for the Raiders, as they have the cap space to beat any offer the Dallas Cowboys make. Pro Football Talk reports that Murray should have some attention as the best back on the market, but the price for RBs may not get too high.
The Cowboys are looking to keep Murray, but they feel that he won't get the major money he is looking for on the market and may re-sign once he tests it out. According to ESPN.com, Steven Jackson, DeAngelo Williams and Reggie Bush were all released this offseason and they also could be fits for the Raiders. The Raiders were one of the worst rushing teams in the league last season and they will be looking to get more consistent with Derek Carr coming back for year two at quarterback.
The Raiders ranked last in the league in rushing last season with just 77 yards per game and now they have to find a way to get more production from the position. Murray has had injury issues in his short career and that means some depth is going to come from free agency or the draft. Some prospects this year include Todd Gurley, Melvin Gordon and Ameer Abdullah as well as TJ Yeldon. Veterans like Jackson, Ingram, Bush and Williams also could be potential fits for the team.
Jackson is a tough runner and lasted through 15 games last season before being cut by Falcons this offseason. Jackson was as consistent as they come until he got to Atlanta and he only had 542 yards and 707 yards in each of the past two seasons, which came after a sustained run of at least 1000 yards. Jackson could be motivated if he signs, while Williams is also an option after being released. Williams dealt with injuries last season and could be a cheap option with a high upside if he stays healthy.
The Raiders have the money to sign Murray if they want and that gives them an advantage over the Cowboys. Dallas is interested in bringing back Murray, but with Dez Bryant getting the franchise tag and possibly a long term deal this offseason, it could price out Murray. The Raiders are motivated to add a top flight running back and Murray led the league with 1845 yards last season. Murray also has injury issues in his past, but he lasted through all 16 games last season with no major problems.
