Oakland Raiders: Final predictions for most surprising 2018 roster cuts

RB Doug Martin

Initially, the arrival of Doug Martin in Oakland seemed like a good move for the veteran’s career. It was a chance for him to reinvent himself after a promising stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers turned into a complete train wreck.

Unfortunately, since the preseason began, he’s been completely eclipsed by Chris Warren III. The undrafted rookie running back has taken Oakland by storm, proving himself to be an underrated asset capable of carrying the ground game. Although he won’t leapfrog Marshawn Lynch on the depth chart anytime soon, he’s proven that he deserves a spot on the 53-man roster.

That’s going to be a problem for Martin.

Chances are the Raiders are only going to keep three running backs and a fullback. Lynch is safe, and Keith Smith has the fullback spot locked down. That means the final two running back jobs should come down to Martin, Warren and Jalen Richard.

Well, Warren has all the momentum after a smokin’ hot preseason. Richard offers more value as a third-down/receiving specialist. Martin carried the ball only seven times during the preseason, amassing a measly 27 yards. There’s just no comparison at this point.

The above tweet says it all. Hand Martin his walking papers, and keep Warren. There’s just so much more value in retaining the young, exciting option instead of the has-been.