Emergence of Raiders’ running backs could spark problems

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Tuesday, June 02, 2009  |  Comments( 12 )

Oakland Raiders
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While Raider Nation is hopeful Oakland’s running game will continue to build off last season, having multiple marquee backs on the roster could prove to be a challenge. With players demanding new contracts or trades at an alarming rate, the Raiders’ front office may be forced to make critical decisions at the position in the very near future.

Although Justin Fargas is the most accomplished runner in the Oakland backfield, his involvement in the Raiders’ offense could take a major hit this season. Darren McFadden is on the verge of a breakout year and Michael Bush is fully healed from a leg injury that stunted his growth early in his career.

After the addition of McFadden, Fargas’ playing time was expected to diminish last season. However, McFadden was plagued by injuries during his rookie year and managed only 499 yards while playing in just 13 games. Throughout the majority of the season, McFadden’s explosiveness was neutralized by a nagging turf toe.

Meanwhile, after missing the entire 2007 campaign, Bush hit the ground running. He totaled 421 yards on the ground and also demonstrated tremendous versatility out of the backfield with 19 grabs for 162 yards. Bush was relatively healthy for the duration of the season, which was a major step forward after arriving in the NFL with a broken leg.

Having such a talented group of running backs is a luxury but could also induce important verdicts by the front office. Given Oakland’s sketchy past with regard to personnel decisions, Raider fans are crossing their fingers that Al Davis will make the right moves. As of now, Fargas looks to be the most dispensable back on the roster, but Oakland’s top brass may be thinking differently.

McFadden has already secured a lucrative contract, but Bush was a fourth-round pick and could be on his was to severely outplaying his rookie deal. If that scenario pans out, Bush is expected to request a new contract reflecting his true market value. In addition, several teams will be knocking on the Raiders’ door inquiring about a trade because of their previous commitment to McFadden.

If and when the times comes, it's of course possible that Oakland could keep both young backs. Then again, many players prefer to be full-time starters and timeshares in the backfield don’t always work.

Thankfully, Oakland won’t have to deal with that problem just yet; however, if Bush and McFadden break out in 2009, a major decision could be on the horizon.
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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: 12  |  Sign Up  View all comments
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No.1
The Franchise		02:53 AM
06/02/2009
fargas signed a 5 yr 20 mill contract last season didnt he? , i don't see him complaining about getting a new one since the...
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No.2
11:17 AM
06/02/2009
I don't see a "problem" at all. If Michael Bush rushes for 1,200 yards (That's quite a bit though with McFadden also in the...
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No.3
svduran1		11:38 AM
06/02/2009
RC, good point, there is absolutely no reason to not to keep Bush, McFadden and Fargus. I also thought I heard Fargus...
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