Neal to pave the way for Raiders’ running backs

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Sunday, May 10, 2009  |  Comments( 21 )

Oakland Raiders
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The signing of fullback Lorenzo Neal probably won’t find many headlines, but the four-time Pro Bowler is an underrated addition to the Oakland Raiders’ backfield. The running game carried the Raider offense a year ago and a bulldozing lead blocker will only improve Oakland’s rushing attack in 2009.

With the Raiders’ offensive line still developing, the addition of Neal provides stability to an already sufficient running game in Oakland. Even while averaging an NFL-worst 148 yards per contest through the air, the Raiders mustered up 124 yards per game rushing in '08. As things continue to gel in the trenches along with quarterback JaMarcus Russell’s progression, Neal’s presence in the backfield could do wonders this season.

In addition to blocking for numerous 1,000-yard rushers, Neal has been extremely reliable during the course of his 16-year career. Since appearing in just two games during his rookie season of 1993, Neal has missed only three games over the next 15 years. His consistency and experience should help the likes of Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas and Michael Bush.

Most recently, Neal found a home with the Baltimore Ravens, albeit for just one season. However, in 2008 the Ravens relied heavily on their running game with rookie signal-caller Joe Flacco at the helm. Baltimore racked up nearly 150 yards per game on the ground, good for fourth best in the NFL. On the legs of their rushing attack, the Ravens advanced to the AFC championship game before losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers.

Prior to his one-year stint with Baltimore, Neal spent five seasons with the San Diego Chargers. It’s no coincidence that perennial Pro Bowl running back LaDainian Tomlinson’s best years came with Neal leading the way. After Neal left San Diego following the 2007 season, Tomlinson had the worst output of his career. He managed only 1,110 yards after averaging 1,546 yards per season with Neal as his backfield partner.

While Neal’s best playing days are certainly behind him, he’ll still be quite valuable to a talented Raiders running back corps. Oakland has all facets of the running game covered with a three-headed monster at the position. McFadden is a classic home run threat who can score any time he touches the ball. Meanwhile, Fargas is a balanced and steady runner while Bush has the potential to become a bruiser between the tackles.

The signing of Neal will have more than just an impact on the playing field, too. He’ll be able to mentor a relatively young group of players and provide leadership in the Raiders’ room. Furthermore, with a history of success wherever he’s played, Oakland is hopeful Neal's good fortune will rub off on the once-proud franchise that’s fallen on hard times.
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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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CommentsComments: 21  |  Sign Up  View all comments
No.1
Rob40		01:53 AM
05/11/2009
Dont even worry about how much more he can take. The only one who knows that is Lorenzo Neal himself, and i guess he wouldn't be ...
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No.2
Raider Revenge		04:13 AM
05/11/2009
What's up Nation? Just got back from getting married and a bahama honeymoon feeling real good. Oneal would be a great fit to help ...
No.3
EZRaider		06:01 AM
05/11/2009
Neal is a great pick up even if he can't produce on the field, he'll be invaluable in the fact he that he adds veteran leadership ...
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