After the departure of Josh Jacobs, the Las Vegas Raiders entered the 2024 season in search of a new running back. Their initial hope for Zamir White didn't pan out, as he fell short of expectations, while Ameer Abdullah and Alexander Mattison provided only moderate support. Despite some promising moments from Sincere McCormick, the team recognizes the need for a more reliable option. One potential candidate is Najee Harris, whose contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers is set to expire soon. Harris has been linked to the Raiders multiple times due to his impressive performance in previous seasons, but his relatively low average yards per carry raises questions about his fit. With ample cap space, the Raiders may weigh their options and consider addressing their running back needs through free agency or the draft.

The Las Vegas Raiders struggled significantly in their rushing attack during the 2024 season, ranking last in the NFL with an average of just 79.8 yards per game. Following the season, offensive coordinator Luke Getsy was dismissed due to his inability to develop an effective ground game, a stark contrast to his successful stint with the Chicago Bears. Analyst and former Raiders running back Maurice Jones-Drew criticized the team's leading rusher, Alexander Mattison, placing him last in the league. Mattison, who took over after Josh Jacobs' departure, only managed to rush for 420 yards, leaving him 53rd among all running backs. Meanwhile, Ameer Abdullah and Sincere McCormick outperformed him, averaging 4.7 yards per carry.

The Raiders aimed to revamp their running back lineup as both Mattison and Abdullah are set to hit free agency, creating uncertainty about their returns. This overhaul is crucial for the team’s competitiveness in the upcoming season, especially after a disappointing 2024 campaign.

The Las Vegas Raiders are facing uncertainty at the running back position as multiple players have cycled through the starting role this season. Sincere McCormick, the youngest in the group, has shown promise but has been sidelined due to injury after briefly taking the starting job.

Despite his limited playing time, McCormick ranks second on the team in rushing yards. However, with the team in a rebuilding phase and uncertainty surrounding veteran Alexander Mattison's future, the Raiders may consider bringing in a more established running back to support McCormick's development.

The upcoming matchup between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders is a crucial one for both teams, as they vie for a better draft position. With the Jaguars at 3-11 and the Raiders at 2-12, each team is looking to avoid further embarrassment, especially the Raiders, who are on a 10-game losing streak.

Both teams have struggled significantly, and a win could potentially eliminate them from contention for the coveted number one overall pick in the upcoming draft. Quarterback play has been subpar, with Mac Jones starting for the Jaguars in place of the injured Trevor Lawrence, while Adian O’Connell leads the Raiders.

This article discusses key fantasy football waiver wire pickups for Week 16, highlighting several players who could significantly impact your roster.

Alexander Mattison is set to reclaim the lead role in the Las Vegas Raiders' backfield following Sincere McCormick's injury. His performance suggests he should be added in all leagues.

Patrick Taylor Jr. is poised to be the main running back for the San Francisco 49ers, while Michael Penix Jr. takes over as the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.

Brenton Strange's high target volume for the Jacksonville Jaguars makes him a valuable addition in PPR leagues. Jerome Ford will step in as the lead back for the Cleveland Browns after Nick Chubb's injury, and Kendre Miller is a must-add for the New Orleans Saints with Alvin Kamara's potential absence.