The Las Vegas Raiders are going to lean heavily on Zamir White to carry the load at the running back position. Going into Year 3, they believe he has all the traits to be a star in the NFL.
However, they would like to find a competent backup that could spell him, especially on passing downs. And that’s where things could get really interesting in Las Vegas.
In a recent article by Tashan Reed of The Athletic, he did his early 53-man roster prediction heading into the summer. On that list was sixth-round pick Dylan Laube, who is fighting for the No. 3 RB job behind White and Mattison. Here is what Reed had to say about the running back position going into camp:
Two years after he was drafted to become Josh Jacobs’ successor, White is set to do just that this season. The third-year running back has good size at 6-foot, 215 pounds, a bruising running style and enough burst to separate from defenders downfield.
He started the final four games last season and took advantage by racking up 397 rushing yards (third in the NFL during that span). Mattison is in line to be the primary backup and lessen the wear and tear that White has to endure. Abdullah and Laube will compete for a role as the third-down running back, and they should contribute on special teams.
Reed projects four running backs to make the final 53-man roster with Laube earning the final spot. But because of his ability to win as a receiver, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he had an impact right away on passing downs.
Laube will need a big camp in order to earn passing down work, but he might already be the most natural receiver on the roster. Look for the buzz to heat up for the former New Hampshire star over the next six weeks.
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