The Oakland Raiders made steady progress in 2015 and heading into nest season, the team could target the running back position as a spot to upgrade behind starter Latavius Murray. Players like Ezekiel Elliott, Derrick Henry and CJ Procise could be draft targets, while names like Arian Foster and Marshawn Lynch also could be available if they are released this winter.
The Raiders have a solid amount of cap space heading into 2016 and they could spend money on free agents this offseason. The team is projected to have around $60 million in space and that could set the team up to make some upgrades at a number of positions. NFL media reports have Marshawn Lynch and Arian Foster as potential release options this year and the Raiders could consider both of those players if they hit the market.
Mario Williams is another player that could be available, while names like Josh Norman, Matt Forte, Lamar Miller, Doug Martin, Rishard Matthews, Muhammad Wilkerson, Greg Hardy, Eric Berry, Bruce Irvin, Jason Pierre-Paul and Von Miller could end up available. The Raiders have needs on both sides of the ball and in free agency and the draft there are certain positions the team could target, including running back, defensive end, linebacker, safety and cornerback.
The Raiders took steps forward in 2015, especially on offense with the development of Derek Carr, who proved that he is the future for Oakland at the QB position. Latavius Murray stepped up and had a strong season as the starter, but the team needs more depth at RB. Ezekiel Elliot and Derrick Henry are considered top options in the draft and they could be potential targets for the Raiders. Elliott had 1821 yards and 23 TDs last season, while Henry rushed for 2061 yards and 25 scores while winning the Heisman trophy.
Murray had a strong season for the Raiders, but the team overall did not get much from the running back position behind Murray, as the team ranked in the bottom part of the league in overall rushing yards. Adding another solid back to the stable with Murray could be huge for Carr and the offense, as the team now has two solid WR options with Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree. Getting a more productive backup or third string option behind Murray could be another big step for the Raiders as they try and get back into the playoff mix in the AFC for 2016.
Silver and Black Pride at SB Nation put together some draft targets for the team and names like Reggie Ragland, Myles Jack, Mackensie Alexander, Vernon Hargreaves and Jaylon Smith also could be potential options. The team also has been mentioned in a potential move to San Antonio after missing out on the Los Angeles relocation for the NFL. While a move is very unlikely, the team still has its future a bit uncertain with the stadium situation in Oakland.
