Austin Ekeler Could Compliment Zamir White Well

Depending on Josh Jacobs' future, the Raiders could be in need of a veteran presence at running back. If Jacobs doesn't return, Austin Ekeler could be the answer.

The Las Vegas Raiders could have a completely different look at running back next season, with two of their top rushers set to hit free agency this offseason. 

Josh Jacobs and Ameer Abdullah are free agents this offseason, with Jacobs as the Silver and Black's primary focus.

Depending on what happens with Jacobs, the Raiders could need a veteran running back or two to pair with running back Zamir White next season. 

White spent the last few weeks of the season proving he can carry the workload for the Raiders after spending much of his first two seasons in the league behind Jacobs on the depth chart. 

In his first two starts for the Raiders, White rushed for more than 100 yards and is one of only a few running backs in Raiders history who accomplished that feat. 

Still, if Las Vegas cannot agree to some sort with Jacobs, they will have to depend on White and add additional backs around him.

With the amount of punishment running backs take in the National Football League, even if the Raiders decide to enter next season with White, it would be wise for them to add another running back.

Since the Raiders recently hired former Los Angeles Chargers General Manager Tom Telesco and Chargers running back Austin Ekeler is  entering free agency this offseason, Jason Reed of BoltBeat.com  thinks the Raiders could pair Ekeler with White and have a formidable yet affordable duo at running back. 

"With a new regime in Los Angeles, there is no chance that Ekeler is going to return, especially after the season he had," Reed said. "However, Ekeler could still work with the same front office if he follows the trend of old Chargers joining the Las Vegas Raiders.

"Tom Telesco is now running things in Vegas, and with Josh Jacobs hitting free agency, the Raiders may be looking for the most cost-effective option to fill out the position. 

"And thanks to Jimmy Garoppolo getting a two-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing substance policy, the Raiders now have more money to spend to justify bringing Ekeler in."

While White is younger and much cheaper than Jacobs, the result of Jacobs' free agency is the most significant factor. Assuming Jacobs doesn't return, pairing White with Ekeler and a new offensive coordinator could give the Raiders improved results on offense.

From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.

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