After running back Maurice Jones-Drew and the Jacksonville Jaguars parted ways, Jones-Drew choosing the Oakland Raiders should not have surprised anyone.
Although they may not be a contender (even if Jones-Drew says new Raiders’ can quarterback Matt Schaub can lead them to the Super Bowl), Jones-Drew attended UCLA and is from Oakland.
However, there were several other teams interested in the veteran running back, including a few contenders.
According to Mad Dog Sports Radio, Jones- Drew drew interest from his former team, the Jaguars, as well as the New England Patriots, New York Giants, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers and San Diego Chargers with the Patriots and Steelers joining the Raiders in his final three.
MJD says he spoke with the #Giants, #Jets, #Patriots, #Pittsburgh, #Dolphins, #Jaguars, #Chargers, #Raiders. OAK/NE/PITT were his final 3
— Mad Dog Sports Radio (@MadDogRadio) April 2, 2014
That makes sense – both teams had a need at the position.
The Steelers have since agreed to a deal with former Patriots’ running back LaGarrette Blount while the Patriots still search for his replacement.