The Las Vegas Raiders are set to usher in a new era with their relocation to Allegiant Stadium for the 2020 NFL season. It appears running back Jalen Richard will be a part of the move.
According to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, Richard has agreed to terms on a new contract extension with the Raiders:
The #Raiders and RB Jalen Richard have agreed to terms on a contract extension that he’ll sign shortly, source said. The third-down back was a pass-catching weapon out of the backfield. Now, he stays in the fold in Vegas.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 5, 2020
Richard signed with the Raiders as an undrafted free agent out of Southern Miss prior to the 20216 campaign. This team has ushered in some significant changes to their roster since the arrival of head coach Jon Gruden. Regardless, it is clear that he has managed to make quite the impression on the new regime.
Las Vegas struck gold with their rookie class from the 2019 NFL Draft, however, running back Josh Jacobs managed to establish himself as a cut above the rest by establishing as a bonafide workhorse. His emergence ultimately spurred Gruden to feature him as the centerpiece of the offense and it is safe to say that will not change any time soon.
Although Jacobs' presence will continue to receive the majority of the carries out of the backfield, it seems the Raiders are happy with Richard as their receiving option in passing situations. He finished the 2019 NFL season with 36 receptions for 323 yards.
While the drop-off in his numbers from the 2018 campaign can be attributed to Jacobs' arrival, Richard remains as a vital piece of the backfield for Las Vegas.
As a result, he has now managed to shore up some long-term security beyond his rookie contract.
Follow Us
Subscribe