Darren McFadden is entering a big season. The Oakland Raiders running back is in the final year of his contract and a year of poor results could make the offseason of 2014 very difficult for him. If he plays to his talent level, he could be in for some big money on the free agency market. That all sounds great to McFadden, but he would rather just stay in Oakland.
McFadden is the lead back in Oakland. The depth chart at the position is not that great, so a lot is expected of him. McFadden is not playing for a new top-dollar contract, he is simply playing to just remain a Raider.
"I love being a Raider," McFadden said via CSNBayArea.com. "As long as they want to bring me back and have me here for as long as they want to have me-I love being a Raider, and I'm here."
McFadden was hoping to be offered a contract extension this summer, but nothing ever happened. Kicker Sebastian Janikowski got an extension, as did long snapper Jon Condo. The Raiders opted to use their remaining salary cap space on those two players and never opened discussions up with McFadden. The running back is not thrilled about that, but he remains hopeful that he can stay in Oakland long-term.
"It's all about playing football," McFadden said. "If I take care of my business and do what I'm supposed to do, everything else will fall in line."
McFadden's inconsistencies with both his production and health are not helping his cause. The running back put up his best season in 2010 when he recorded 1,157 yards and seven touchdowns. He followed that up with 614 yards and then 707 yards in 2012 with just two touchdowns. McFadden has been primarily the lead back during his time in Oakland and has not taken advantage of it. He has struggled to start every game, getting hurt for the fifth-straight year.
2013 could be McFadden's breakout year. The offense is more suited for his running style as Greg Olson continues to experiment with the playbook. The zone blocking of last season hurt McFadden's game, but Olson is driving the scheme in a different direction this year.
Reggie McKenzie is done handing out extensions for the year. It would not benefit either side to put something together right before the season starts. McFadden understands the pressure facing him this year, but he is not letting that get into his head. With the struggling play at the quarterback position, the offense could rely heavily on McFadden which will certainly help him next year.
