The Las Vegas Raiders endured a challenging 2024 season, finishing at the bottom of the AFC West with a disheartening 4-13 record. This marked their third consecutive year of struggling, leaving fans hoping for a turnaround as they look ahead to the offseason.
One of the biggest issues for the Raiders was their offensive performance. They were tied for 28th in the league, averaging only 18.2 points per game. Pair that with a rushing attack that ranked dead last, averaging just 79.8 yards per game, and it’s clear that the offense desperately needs revitalization.
The good news? With $92.6 million in cap space available, the Raiders are in a prime position to make impactful roster moves. This offseason offers a crucial opportunity to bolster their ranks and inject some much-needed life into their offense.
One name being floated as a potential addition is running back Najee Harris. According to Tyler Dragon from USA Today, Harris is seen as a fit for the Raiders under their new head coach, Pete Carroll. Known for his preference for a strong running game, Carroll could be looking to build a similar ground attack reminiscent of the one he had in Seattle with Marshawn Lynch. Harris’ style perfectly aligns with that kind of scheme.
Drafted in the first round by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, Harris has proven to be a reliable playmaker since joining the league. In each of his seasons, he has surpassed the 1,000-yard mark, accumulating a total of 4,312 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns across 1,097 attempts. Plus, he made an immediate impact by earning a Pro Bowl selection during his rookie season.
If the Raiders decide to pursue Harris, they won’t have to make a significant financial commitment, either. Spotrac estimates his market value at about $9.2 million per year. This makes him a feasible target as the Raiders aim to turn things around in 2025.
With potential moves on the horizon, Raider Nation has reason to be hopeful. If they can make the right acquisitions, a resurgence may just be in the cards for this storied franchise.
