3 mistakes the Raiders made this offseason and how to fix them

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 04: Head coach Jon Gruden of the Las Vegas Raiders looks on during the second half of the NFL game against the Buffalo Bills at Allegiant Stadium on October 4, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Bills defeated the Raiders 30-23. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

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New Raiders running back Kenyan Drake. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Signing Kenyan Drake

The Raiders had a Pro Bowl running back in 2020. Josh Jacobs had his second 1,000 yard season while punching in 12 touchdowns and adding 238 yards through the air.

Why did they need to go out and spend money on Kenyan Drake?

Drake had a strong season with the Cardinals in 2020. He rushed for 955 yards and 10 touchdowns. It can’t hurt the Las Vegas rushing attack to pair Jacobs with a speedy second option.

It’s also $11 million they’ve invested in what amounts to a luxury item. You get to make that kind of move when you’re a playoff contender looking for a narrow edge. When you’re coming off an 8-8 season, need to rebuild your offensive line and have a suspect defense, there are more important places to spend.

Of course, Gruden and company made this bed. Now they need to sleep in it. That means proving any doubters about Drake’s usefulness wrong by getting everything possible out of him.

Next, the Raiders have to justify not spending that money on a right tackle by hitting big in the draft. Prospects will be available, but identifying one who can contribute immediately is key.

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