Oakland Raiders: Breaking down running backs after Preseason Week 3

After three preseason games, where do the Oakland Raiders six running backs stand on the depth chart? How many tailbacks survive the final cuts?

Typically, Week 3 of the preseason features most of the starters, which leaves the backups fighting for reserves roles in the finale. However, Oakland Raiders head coach Jon Gruden has conducted business on his own terms.

After sitting most of his starters in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams because of their season-opening matchup, much of the first-team offense came off the field before the second quarter Friday.

Offensively, one player stood out above the rest, and it’s been a recurring theme through the preseason. Running back Chris Warren III helped seal a 13-6 victory over the Green Bay Packers in the last outing. In addition, the undrafted free agent out of Texas may have claimed a roster spot as well. He leads the league in rushing yards with 250 on 46 attempts.

At the moment, what’s the outlook for the Raiders backfield? Who makes the cut?

Marshawn Lynch

There’s no question here. The Raiders committed to Marshawn Lynch in March when he agreed to restructure his deal, which allowed him to net $4.5 million in guaranteed cash, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

Lynch took a handoff for a 60-yard touchdown in the first preseason game against the Detroit Lions, but offensive tackle Kolton Miller’s holding penalty negated the play. Still, he looked fresh on his legs and primed for another season as the lead ball-carrier in the backfield.

Beast Mode should see about 65 percent of the team’s rush attempts en route to another solid campaign.

Doug Martin

Fans want to know what the Raiders see in Doug Martin because he’s looked uninspiring during the preseason, but it’s likely enough to maintain a spot on the roster. He logged six carries for 24 yards against the Packers but much of his total came on a 16-yard carry.

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Bay Area News Group reporter Jerry McDonald suggests Martin has “a lock” on a running back spot, which explains his light workload in exhibition action.

Don’t expect to see Martin or Lynch play in the preseason finale against the Seattle Seahawks. Like it or not, the 29-year old projects as the complement to Beast Mode in the rushing offense. He’s a two-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro who’s been inconsistent in a feature role, but Oakland just needs him to help out — not be the guy.

Jalen Richard

Running back Jalen Richard hasn’t been effective with limited carries through the preseason. He’s rushed seven times for 16 yards, but the Raiders seem to favor him in the passing game. The third-year veteran has caught 10 passes for 104 yards and leads the team in both categories.

Richard’s position isn’t in danger. He potentially has the best hands in the backfield and clearly separated himself from DeAndre Washington. The Southern Mississippi product won’t see a lot of carries in the regular season — view him more as a third-down receiver out of the backfield.

DeAndre Washington

Washington put together a solid outing against the Lions in the first preseason contest, logging six carries for 38 yards, but that’s where it ended for him. According to Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter Michael Gehlken, the 2016 fifth-rounder underwent arthroscopic knee surgery:

If he’s unable to suit up, the Raiders can place him on the physically unable to perform list and make a decision on him during the regular season. However, his skill set overlaps Richard as a smaller running back who can catch out of the backfield, though, he’s possibly a better rusher.

Nonetheless, the coaching staff’s faith in Martin doesn’t leave much room for Washington. Oakland may decide to waive him, which allows the 25-year old to sign with another team on a fresh start and more opportunities.

Chris Warren III

Here’s the major reason Washington doesn’t make the 53-man roster. The Raiders took a long look at Warren through three exhibition contests. Clearly, they want to know if he’s equipped for a role in the backfield. Thus far, he’s delivered in action.

The undrafted rookie will likely play in the fourth preseason game to put a bow on a productive exhibition that should land him on a team’s 53-man roster. Oakland would risk another team poaching him if he goes to the practice squad. However, a lackluster performance would put his status back in question.

If Warren survives the final cuts Sept. 1, he’d likely see the third-most carries through the regular season as insurance for Lynch and an alternative finisher near the goal line.

James Butler

James Butler just doesn’t have enough plays to make the roster. He’s rushed five times for eight yards. The undrafted rookie out of Iowa will probably handle most of the handoffs against Seattle. Nonetheless, there’s nothing he could do in one game versus the backups to jump over Warren or Richard.