The Raiders had an excellent season in 2016, finishing 11-5 with quarterback Derek Carr at the helm. Oakland didn't rely a ton on the rushing game, but they did use a mix of backs to effectively administer a rushing game. They relied on Latavius Murray, Jalen Richard, and Deandre Washington in their games. Murray is set to become a free agent in 2017 and it doesn't seem like they're interested in keeping him around.
Raiders Showing Minimal Interest in Murray.
According to multiple sources, including Fox Sports, The Raiders are expected to allow Murray to test the free agent market.
If he doesn't find a landing spot, Oakland will likely retain the talented running back at a reduced price. But for now, Latavius will look to find a suitor on the open market. Here are a few teams that could use the services of Latavius Murray.
1. Green Bay Packers.
Latavius Murray would give Green Bay a type of player that they haven't had in a while. Eddie Lacy was having a solid year until he got injured last year, but he's already proved that he's not particularly capable of performing at a high level consistency. Instead of addressing the position in the draft, Green Bay could just sign Murray in free agency.
2. New England Patriots.
LeGarrette Blount isn't getting any younger, and New England could use a different type of player at the running back position.
Both James White and Dion Lewis are there to catch passes, so Latavius Murray could easily fit in with the team. He'd be a taller and faster back than Blount with more potential as a younger player. And he'd probably be willing to sign for less than market value to play with a Super Bowl contender.
3. Detroit Lions.
Ameer Abdullah is a solid player when he is healthy, but he doesn't have the strength that a bigger back like Latavius Murray has.
Murray would give Detroit a bigger bruising back to pair with the much shiftier Ameer Abdullah. That added dimension would likely help Detroit balance their attack even more, giving Stafford more time and more options.
