Maurice Jones-Drew signs 3-year deal with Oakland Raiders
Maurice Jones-Drew (32) runs with the ball as Tennessee Titans defends during the second half at EverBank Field. Tennessee Titans defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 20-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
In 2011, Maurice Jones-Drew ran for over 1,600 yards for the Jacksonville Jaguars and was regarded as the second-best running back behind Adrian Peterson, but an injury caused him to play in just six games last season and he averaged a meager 3.4 yards per carry last year. MJD is looking for a renaissance, and he has a great opportunity to do that with the Oakland Raiders.
Jones-Drew started a two-day visit with the Raiders yesterday, and the team’s significant interest culminated in a contract offer. He was always expected to sign a three-year deal, and ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that both sides have officially agreed to a three-year deal that will bring the UCLA product to the Bay Area.
The Raiders lost Rashad Jennings to the New York Giants this offseason, so they re-signed Darren McFadden to a one-year deal laden with incentives. He had plenty of talent, but he is even more inconsistent and has major issues with injuries. If one of either he or MJD can play at their best, then the Raiders could have a solid rushing attack to support Matt Schaub and the passing game, which could snag Sammy Watkins with the fifth overall pick.
Again, the Jones-Drew deal has been in the works for quite some time, but it’s nice to hear confirmation that a three-year pact has been reached. Next up, figuring out how much Reggie McKenzie will pay him and the exact structuring of a deal to a 29-year-old running back.