It's officially NFL draft week. Marshawn Lynch still isn't a Raider.
A contract impasse remained as of Sunday morning, a few days before general manager Reggie McKenzie's desire for a by-Thursday resolution.
Deadlines, even soft ones, prompt deals. But Marshawn is unique, adding a level of uncertainty to procedings.
The Raiders would prefer Lynch agree to terms on a new contract so they can acquire his rights from Seattle -- that's the easier part – and know where they stand heading into the NFL draft.
McKenzie left several doors cracked during a Friday pre-draft presser, saying Lynch's presence wouldn't stop him from drafting a rusher, not having the Oakland native wouldn't guarantee it, and that there's always a chance Lynch could come later no matter what happens during amateur selection.
Those things could be true. Or, you know, not. McKenzie prefers mystery this time of year.
Bottom line: The Raiders need a bigger back to pair with smaller, yet elusive runners DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard.
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The Raiders want Lynch to fill the void. Ditto for Raider Nation, especially the Oakland state. A few free-agent options remain, including LaGarrette Blount. Or the Raiders could draft a back, something the Raiders have done well in later rounds.
They got Latavius Murray in the sixth round four years back, and he provided quality before changing uniforms this offseason. They got Washington in the fifth last time and pulled Richard from undrafted free agency. They could mine talent again this year. Waiting seems more likely if Lynch is around.
Quality abounds in this draft class, with several worthy of early selections and talent easily found late. Let's inspect McKenzie's draft options at running back, should he need one:
Good fits: It's hard to see the Raiders looking at a rusher in the first round, considering the draft's depth at the position and major defensive needs. A first-round talent might be considered in the second. If controversial former Oklahoma rusher Joe Mixon is available following a free fall due to off-field issues described in detail here, a running back might come early.
Tennessee's Alvin Kamara could be another Day 2 option, an explosive talent who analysts say has wiggle and power to create coveted yards after contact. He could be a three-down back thanks to quality as a receiver.
Odds are, however, the Raiders will look deeper into the draft. Wyoming's Brian Hill was an excellent college producer who runs strong and might fit well into the Raiders rotation. Round projections vary, but he should be available on Day 3.
Pittsburgh's James Connor offers great power at 233 pounds. He could run through tacklers and wear down defenses for the Raiders' shift backs. He's also well known for drive and work ethic. He is projected as a fifth or sixth round pick.
Brigham Young's Jamaal Williams might offer value and power rushing later in the draft. Clemson's Wayne Gallman has tackle-breaking ability, but analysts say he isn't a strong pass protector.
