Raiders sign veteran RB Rod Smith to 53-man roster

Raiders sign veteran RB Rod Smith to 53-man roster

With Josh Jacobs dealing with a shoulder injury, the Oakland Raiders need some help at running back for the next few weeks. That is why they have signed veteran running back Rod Smith, who last played with the Tennesee Titans.

Smith has appeared in 52 career games, totaling 636 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns. He also has experience as a kick returner, as well as playing on nearly every special team’s unit while he was in Dallas and Seattle.

Smith has a ton of versatility as he has started games at both running back and fullback in the NFL. And given his special teams’ experience with Rich Bisaccia, it shouldn’t be hard for him to find playing time right away. Smith is a fantastic receiver and can help him pass-protection, as well.

If Jacobs is out again this week, look for Smith to play behind Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington as a do-it-all back. The team also announced that they have waived veterans D.J. Swearinger, Terrell McClain and Preston Brown.

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