Raiders Set Sights on Veteran RB in Latest Prediction
The Las Vegas Raiders are in need of a boost to their running game, and a recent forecast suggests Pittsburgh Steelers’ Najee Harris could be the answer. The Raiders struggled with their rushing attack last season, finishing last in the NFL for average rushing yards per game. While they have promising young players like Sincere McCormick and Dylan Laube, the team might benefit from experienced leadership at the position.
Veteran running backs Alexander Mattison and Ameer Abdullah were brought in to fill this role, but neither player consistently delivered. Both are slated to become free agents, and with a new offensive coordinator in Chip Kelly, the Raiders could be searching for a more reliable veteran option.
USA Today’s Tyler Dragon recently predicted that Harris could help solve the Raiders’ running back dilemma. Harris, who made history as the first Steelers running back to rush for 1,000 yards in each of his first four seasons, may not be known for big plays, but he is a proven, capable starter, according to Dragon.
The Raiders could benefit from someone like Harris as their starting running back, especially given last season’s struggles. Additionally, Harris could provide the steady veteran leadership that a young offensive line would greatly appreciate.
Dragon also pointed out that new head coach Pete Carroll, known for establishing a strong running game, could benefit from Harris’s ability to run in a zone-blocking offense, similar to Marshawn Lynch’s role in Seattle.
Though it may be difficult to lure Harris away from a Steelers team that made the playoffs, the Raiders remain a possible landing spot. The real challenge lies in whether the Steelers are willing to part with a player who has consistently rushed for over 1,000 yards each season. Should Harris become available, the Raiders would be a strong contender.
The Raiders also have other options for running back depth, including the 2025 NFL Draft, should they choose not to rely on McCormick or Laube.
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