Ranking Raiders’ top 3 position groups

The Las Vegas Raiders have done a lot of work in the offseason to improve from last season’s 8-8 record.

Now that the dust has settled, let’s look at where the Raiders may be the strongest at by ranking their top three position groups.

Running back:
A lot of people (myself included) felt that the Kenyan Drake signing was a luxury purchase at a stiff price. But the truth is, his addition gives the Raiders one of the strongest backfields in the NFL. It’s easy to see why Jon Gruden wanted him.

Drake gives the Raiders’ backfield a reserve running back and a receiving dimension behind Josh Jacobs, who is an upper-echelon tailback. Add fullback Alex Ingold and a depth running back group, and it’s easy to peg this group as the Raiders’ finest.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Tight end:
Darren Waller is the Raiders’ best player, so the tight end position must be ranked high. Waller is a top-three tight end in the NFL and he’s getting better. He’s almost guaranteed to be a 100-catch player. Plus, I believe his backup, Foster Moreau — who is entering his third season — is ready to take a big leap and give the Raiders’ a strong 1-2 punch at this position.

Quarterback:
In his one game last season, backup quarterback Marcus Mariota shined and showed he still is capable of playing at an elite level. Coupled with starter Derek Carr, who I ranked as the 13th best quarterback in the NFL, and a solid backup and the Raiders are in fine shape at the most important position on the field.

Bottom line:
The Raiders, of course, are an offense-first team and this list illustrates that. The key is to get the defense to elevate so Las Vegas can truly compete in the AFC.