Las Vegas Raiders Eye Upgrading Running Back Room
The Las Vegas Raiders are looking to revamp their running back room this offseason, a move that has become increasingly urgent following a lackluster performance from the position in the 2024 season. With the hiring of Pete Carroll as head coach, the team is poised to lean heavily on its rushing attack in the coming years. One potential solution lies in the veteran running back Aaron Jones, who is a free agent this season. TWSN’s Brent Hertzenberg predicts that the Raiders will sign Jones, a move that could provide the team with the experience and leadership it desperately needs.
Aaron Jones: A Proven Veteran
Aaron Jones, now entering his ninth NFL season, brings a wealth of experience to any team. His time with the Green Bay Packers from 2017 to 2022 and his recent stint with the Minnesota Vikings has seen him establish himself as one of the most consistent running backs in the league. Jones’s most productive year came last season with the Vikings, where he rushed for a career-high 1,138 yards at an impressive 4.5 yards per carry and scored five rushing touchdowns. He also contributed significantly in the receiving game, adding 51 catches for 408 yards and two touchdowns. Despite his age, Jones’s versatility and reliability make him a valuable asset.
Leadership and Team Chemistry
Pete Carroll’s coaching philosophy heavily relies on having a steady and proven running back, a role that Jones can fill perfectly. Carroll understands the importance of having a veteran presence on the team, especially one who has been a team captain and has been part of successful franchises. This leadership quality will be crucial for the Raiders, who are likely to start a rookie or unproven quarterback in the upcoming season. Jones’s experience and demeanor can help stabilize the team and foster a positive locker room environment.
Financial Considerations and Market Predictions
While Jones is getting older and may not be a long-term solution, his value as a veteran and his recent production make him an attractive option for the Raiders. Spotrac projects that Jones will sign a one-year deal worth around $5.6 million on the open market. Pro Football Focus, on the other hand, believes he might land a two-year, $14 million contract with $8 million guaranteed. Given the Raiders’ projected cap space of around $99 million, signing Jones should be a feasible and cost-effective move. This financial flexibility will also allow the team to address other major needs on the roster.
Impact on the Offense
The addition of Aaron Jones would bring much-needed juice and excitement to the Las Vegas offense. His dynamic playmaking ability and consistent performance would provide a significant boost to Chip Kelly’s offense, which has been searching for a reliable running back. Jones’s ability to both run and catch out of the backfield would add another dimension to the Raiders’ offensive playbook, making it more versatile and unpredictable.
Strategic Move for the Raiders
General Manager John Spytek should prioritize signing the 2020 Pro Bowler in free agency. This move would not only address one of the team’s most pressing needs but also bring in a player who is battle-tested and reliable. Signing Aaron Jones is a strategic and cost-effective solution that could have a lasting positive impact on the Las Vegas Raiders as they navigate their rebuilding process under Pete Carroll.
