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A look at free agent running backs who could interest Raiders

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Should Raiders’ sign a vet like Frank Gore?

NFL: Jacksonville Jaguars at Oakland Raiders
Josh Jacobs
Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

It’s not one of the Raidersprimary remaining needs, but Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock would like to add another running back this offseason.

Ideally, Gruden would like a bigger back to use as a backup to star Josh Jacobs, who was the best offensive rookie in the NFL despite not winning the award. Again, Kyler Murray, Really? But I digress.

Jacobs took a beating on the way to having 242 carries, and ended up missing three games as a rookie. The Raiders’ need a better insurance policy.

The Raiders’ primary backups were Jalen Richard and Deandre Washington. They’re both effective players, but both are change-of-pace and not a type to ideally take a lead role as an injury replacement. Washington is a free agent and may not come back.

So, Las Vegas would like to add a bigger back. It could probably find one in what is a typically buyer’s market at running back.

Here are a few names the Raiders could consider:

Isaiah Crowell: The Raiders signed Crowell last year, but he tore his achilles. They could reconsider him, though, it was reported Seattle is interested.

Frank Gore: Gore isn’t big, but he plays like he is. The future Hall of Famer will be 37 in May, but he’s a different animal. He could still be a lead back as an injury replacement for a few games. “Frankie Football” is a total Jon Gruden-type. The two belong together. Gore and Jason Witten in the same offseason? Chucky would be bursting “Gruden Grinder’ pride.

Carlos Hyde: He had 1,070 rushing yards last season, so he will probably try to get a starting gig. But if the price is right, why not?