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Raiders' running back competition behind Ashton Jeanty still wide open | Sporting News Canada

Raiders' Running Back Battle Remains Fiercely Contested as Season Approaches

In the high-stakes world of NFL roster battles, few positions generate as much intrigue and uncertainty as the running back room for the Las Vegas Raiders. As training camp progresses and the preseason looms, the competition for carries behind a potential future star like Ashton Jeanty continues to be one of the most wide-open storylines in the league. The Raiders, coming off a season marked by offensive inconsistencies and a revolving door at key skill positions, are desperately seeking stability on the ground. With a mix of veterans, young talents, and unproven prospects vying for roles, this battle could define the team's identity under head coach Antonio Pierce. While the spotlight often shines on quarterbacks and wide receivers, it's the gritty, often overlooked fight in the backfield that might ultimately determine whether the Raiders can contend in the ultra-competitive AFC West.

To understand the current state of affairs, it's essential to rewind to the offseason moves that set the stage for this competition. The Raiders made headlines by parting ways with longtime stalwart Josh Jacobs, who signed a lucrative deal with the Green Bay Packers. Jacobs, a former first-round pick and the engine of the Raiders' rushing attack for years, left a void that the team has been scrambling to fill. In his place, the Raiders turned to a combination of internal development and free-agent acquisitions. Zamir White, a 2022 fourth-round draft pick out of Georgia, emerged as a candidate to take over the lead role late last season when Jacobs was sidelined. White showed flashes of potential, rumbling for over 100 yards in a couple of starts, including a memorable performance against the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day. His powerful running style, reminiscent of a classic between-the-tackles bruiser, has earned him praise from coaches and teammates alike. However, questions linger about his consistency and ability to handle a full workload, especially in the passing game where his receiving skills are still developing.

Enter Alexander Mattison, a free-agent signing from the Minnesota Vikings, who brings a different flavor to the mix. Mattison, who has spent much of his career as a backup to Dalvin Cook, finally got a chance to shine as a starter last season. While his numbers weren't eye-popping, he demonstrated reliability and versatility, capable of contributing in both the run and pass games. At 26 years old, Mattison is in his prime and views this opportunity with the Raiders as a chance to prove he can be a featured back. During organized team activities (OTAs) and minicamp, he's been vocal about his hunger to lead the charge, emphasizing his work ethic and ability to protect the quarterback. Raiders offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, who previously worked with the Chicago Bears, has drawn comparisons between Mattison and some of the versatile backs he's coached in the past, suggesting that Mattison could thrive in a scheme that incorporates more zone-running concepts and play-action passes.

But the competition doesn't stop there. The Raiders have a cadre of other backs pushing for snaps, each bringing unique attributes that keep the race unpredictable. Dylan Laube, a sixth-round rookie from New Hampshire, has turned heads with his speed and elusiveness. As a smaller, shifty runner, Laube excels in open space and could carve out a niche as a change-of-pace option or third-down specialist. His college tape is filled with highlight-reel plays, and early reports from camp indicate he's adapting quickly to the NFL level, impressing with his route-running out of the backfield. Then there's Ameer Abdullah, the veteran journeyman who provides depth and experience. Abdullah, now in his 10th season, isn't likely to challenge for the starting job but serves as a steady hand, particularly on special teams and in pass protection. His leadership in the locker room has been invaluable, mentoring younger players on the nuances of professional football.

Adding another layer of intrigue is the looming presence of Ashton Jeanty, the Boise State standout who's generating buzz as a top running back prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. While Jeanty isn't yet on the Raiders' roster, the team has been linked to him in mock drafts and scouting reports, with some analysts projecting him as a first-round target if the Raiders' ground game struggles early in the season. Jeanty's explosive style—combining breakaway speed, vision, and power—has drawn comparisons to elite backs like Saquon Barkley. His college production, including multiple 1,000-yard seasons and a knack for big plays, makes him an tantalizing future option. Raiders general manager Tom Telesco has been coy about draft plans, but it's clear the organization is monitoring Jeanty closely, especially given their history of investing in dynamic runners. If the current competition doesn't yield a clear winner, the Raiders might accelerate their pursuit of Jeanty or similar prospects, potentially reshaping the backfield midseason or in the offseason.

Head coach Antonio Pierce, a former linebacker known for his no-nonsense approach, has been emphatic about the open nature of this battle. In recent press conferences, Pierce has stressed that no one has a guaranteed spot, and performance in padded practices and preseason games will dictate the pecking order. "We're looking for guys who can move the chains, protect the ball, and make plays when it matters," Pierce said. "It's wide open right now, and that's how we want it. Competition breeds excellence." This philosophy aligns with the Raiders' broader team-building strategy, which emphasizes toughness and resilience after a disappointing 8-9 finish last year. Pierce, who took over midseason and instilled a spark, is building a culture where meritocracy reigns, and the running back room is a prime example.

From a schematic perspective, the Raiders' offense under Getsy is expected to lean more on the run game than in previous years. Getsy, influenced by his time in Green Bay and Chicago, favors a balanced attack that keeps defenses guessing. This could benefit a committee approach if no single back separates himself. White's power might be ideal for short-yardage situations, while Mattison's all-around skills could handle early downs, and Laube's speed might shine on screens and outside zones. The key will be how these backs mesh with the offensive line, which has undergone its own changes with the addition of veteran guard Jackson Powers-Johnson and the return of key starters like Kolton Miller. A strong line could elevate any of these runners, but inconsistencies up front—plagued by injuries in recent seasons—might expose weaknesses in the backfield.

As the Raiders prepare for their preseason opener, the eyes of the fanbase and front office will be glued to this competition. Fans remember the glory days of Raiders rushing attacks, from Marcus Allen to Bo Jackson, and there's a palpable desire to recapture that dominance. The outcome could have ripple effects: a reliable ground game would alleviate pressure on quarterback Aidan O'Connell or Gardner Minshew, whoever wins that battle, and open up the passing game for stars like Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers. Conversely, if the running backs falter, it might force the team into a pass-heavy scheme, exposing the offensive line and increasing turnover risks.

Looking ahead, the wide-open nature of this competition underscores the volatility of the running back position in today's NFL. With shorter shelf lives and the rise of committees, backs must constantly prove their worth. For the Raiders, this battle is more than just about who gets the first carry—it's about establishing an identity in a division dominated by powerhouses like the Chiefs and Chargers. Whether White solidifies his role, Mattison emerges as the lead dog, or a dark horse like Laube surprises everyone, the resolution will shape the season. And with Ashton Jeanty waiting in the wings as a potential draft savior, the Raiders' backfield saga is far from over. As camp intensifies, one thing is certain: in Las Vegas, the running back roulette wheel is still spinning, and the stakes couldn't be higher.

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Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/las-vegas-raiders/news/raiders-running-back-competition-behind-ashton-jeanty-still-wide-open/e5c91a22adeb83fad6fad7e4 ]