It remains to be seen as to whether or not longtime NFL running back Marshawn Lynch once again returns to the fold in 2020. However, one thing is for sure, at least a few teams from around the league will certainly be inquiring about Lynch's availability this upcoming offseason.
Already a former running back for the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Oakland Raiders while notably spending multiple stints in the Pacific Northwest, Lynch can add a veteran presence both in the locker room and on the field. Because the one known infamously as “Beast Mode” made an impact for the Seahawks down the stretch of the 2019-20 campaign, it appears as though Lynch definitely has a little something left in the tank.
If Lynch indeed elects to return for one more NFL season after already deciding to retire a few times, there are at least three teams that should survey the situation closely.
This is an interesting one because the Tennessee Titans are fresh off of a trip to the AFC Championship Game and will more than likely do whatever it takes to retain running back Derrick Henry, who has arguably become the best rusher in the league at the moment. This is an intriguing situation for Tennessee because the potential addition of Marshawn Lynch works whether or not the Titans can re-sign Henry.
If the Titans manage to keep Henry in Nashville for years to come, Lynch can help spell the former Alabama Crimson Tide standout on some third downs or on scattered downs throughout the game to give the big back the occasional breather. On the other hand, the combination of Lynch and Dion Lewis, another Titans running back, could serve as a rushing and passing specific tandem.
Oakland Raiders
With Marshawn Lynch already playing for the Oakland Raiders, perhaps a reunion in Las Vegas is in order. Although Lynch wouldn't serve as the team's top running back as he once did, he could aid the team's ground game by serving as a supplement to up-and-coming running back Josh Jacobs. With Jacobs injuring himself and missing time as a rookie in 2019-20, adding Lynch as some insurance could be a good idea for head coach Jon Gruden and company.
Lynch could certainly serve as a mentor for Jacobs as well, which would benefit everyone involved as the Raiders officially move to Las Vegas in 2020-21.
Seattle Seahawks
Even though the Seattle Seahawks have a few options at the running back position, there is just something about Marshawn Lynch in the NFC West. With the tandem of Rashaad Penny and Chris Carson encountering injury troubles en route to Lynch once again returning to Seattle this past season, his presence was definitely felt — even in limited time.
Because “Beast Mode” is so beloved in Seattle, Lynch could spend one last season with the Seahawks in order to garner a proper sendoff while also helping the team in the locker room, on third down, and in the red zone.