It goes without saying that there is a newfound sense of optimism surrounding the Oakland Raiders following a disastrous 2017 NFL season. Running back Marshawn Lynch solidified that notion by clarifying his return for the 2018 NFL season.
Among those giddy about his return is general manager Reggie McKenzie. According to ESPN's Paul Gutierrez, McKenzie is excited at the thought of Lynch being incorporated in head coach Jon Gruden's new offense:
“No. 1, it means that he really wants to be here and be a part of this,” McKenzie said. “And I think it means a lot to that locker room and the offense, mainly, that we have full intentions on being a physical offensive football team under Jon Gruden. That’s what it means, No. 1.”
There had been some speculation regarding Lynch's future in Oakland with the addition of Gruden and discussions about a pay cut. However, his decision to come back under the circumstances has McKenzie optimistic that the team is ready to go “Beast Mode” this season.
“But you never know with a veteran player, what he wants to do, if he wants to continue,” McKenzie said. “But everything worked out. We’ve got a new staff, and [he wondered] how he’s going to be used. So, I understand the uncertainty of that. But we want to go Beast Mode this year.”
Lynch got off to a slow start to the 2017 campaign following his brief hiatus from the NFL. Fortunately, he managed to find his legs down the final stretch of the season before finishing with 891 yards and seven touchdowns.
The Raiders have added some depth alongside Lynch with former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin now in the backfield. However, it seems the team is still ready to rely on the original “Beast Mode” for next season.
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