Kenyan Drake, Arizona Cardinals. (Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)
The Las Vegas Raiders already had a great running back in Josh Jacobs, so of course, they signed former Arizona Cardinals running back Kenyan Drake in his free agency.
Despite losing pretty much all their offensive linemen this offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders were able to sign former Arizona Cardinals running back Kenyan Drake in his free agency. He will be a high-priced backup to Josh Jacobs on his two-year deal worth $14.5 million.
Few teams, if any, have had a stranger free-agency period than the Silver and Black. This is Jon Gruden’s fourth year back as head coach and the third he has been partnered with Mike Mayock as his general manager.
Though the Raiders have drafted well, they continue to make questionable moves in free agency. Drake is a high-quality player, but they have other bigger needs to address.
Who is going to open up running lanes for Kenyan Drake and Josh Jacobs now?
Longtime Raiders offensive linemen like Rodney Hudson and Gabe Jackson are gone. The son of a former Raiders great in Kyle Long decided to sign with the arch-rival Kansas City Chiefs over the Raiders. While Richie Incognito is returning, you have to wonder what the Raiders are trying to do. What was once a strength is now a glaring weakness. At least they can run it.
Overall, the Raiders are getting an excellent player in Drake. Mayock likes players from blue-blood college programs, so why wouldn’t he want to double-down with some Alabama Crimson Tide action in the ground game? Moreover, Drake will be an asset in the passing game as a receiver out of the backfield more than taking many carries away from Jacobs.
With Jacobs still on his rookie deal, the Raiders can theoretically afford to bring in Drake on a two-year deal. It will be interesting to see how this one works out.