Trading Fargas a possibility for Raiders

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Tuesday, April 21, 2009  |  Comments( 18 )

Oakland Raiders
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The Oakland Raiders currently hold just five picks in this year’s draft, but they could be looking to acquire more selections when this weekend rolls around. With a logjam at the running back position, Oakland may be willing to part ways with one of its capable rushers in order to address several more pressing areas of need.

Although Justin Fargas has been a consistent performer in recent years, the Raiders could attempt to move the six-year pro from USC. With Oakland's top pick from last year’s, Darren McFadden, likely to be featured in a more expanded role, Fargas may be expected to take a back seat. In addition, Michael Bush continues to round into form and is also an option out of the backfield.

After seeing little playing time during his first three NFL seasons, Fargas broke out during his fourth year in the Bay Area. He compiled 659 yards rushing on 178 carries and followed that up with a career-best season in 2007. Fargas carried the ball 222 times for 1,009 yards and reached pay dirt on four occasions.

Fargas’ current value is no less than a fourth-round pick and he could even be swapped for a third-round selection if a prospective team is in dire need of a back. Several teams have also expressed interest in Bush, but the Oakland front office seems determined to keep him.

With McFadden a prototypical home-run threat and Bush an ideal power runner, Fargas may find himself as the odd man out. Despite signing a multiyear contract prior to last season, he could be deemed dispensable if an acceptable trade offer is on the table.

Also working against Fargas is the fact that he’s nearly 30 years old, a dreaded number for backs. While Fargas hasn’t been used extensively, he’s significantly older than both McFadden and Bush. In addition, Fargas lacks ideal top-end speed and doesn’t possess the elusiveness desired in a featured back at the NFL level.

While Oakland might show apprehension to part ways with Fargas, a third- or fourth-round pick is arguably more valuable at this point in time. Having three capable running backs on the roster is unnecessary with other areas in need of attention. Obtaining additional selections in this weekend’s draft would be an excellent start and leave the Raiders in better shape for the future.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To...
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