A new report suggests the Las Vegas Raiders are one of six teams that will pursue, arguably, the best running back in NFL free agency in 2024, Saquon Barkley.
This will be an interesting next few months for the Raiders. After having a strong finish to the 2023-24 season the team will look to continue that momentum with Antonio Pierce installed as the full-time head coach and Tom Telesco now running their front office.
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The new duo overseeing the roster will have a premium pick in the first round of the NFL Draft, and over $42 million to use in free agency as they look to improve the team for 2024. Las Vegas has several needs they have to address this offseason, including finding a starting QB upgrade and landing an impact player at cornerback.
They also need to find a clever way to potentially replace Josh Jacobs if the two-time Pro Bowler leaves in free agency. With running back values down in the NFL if the Raiders can’t retain Jacobs on a deal that benefits the organization the assumption has been that they might look to take a rookie replacement in days two or three of the NFL Draft. However, there is now a chance they could replace one star running back with another.
- Projected Saquon Barkley contract: 3 years, $42 million
Las Vegas Raiders among at least 6 teams that could pursue Saquon Barkley in free agency
On Tuesday, New York Daily News NFL reporter Pat Leonard claimed that as many as six teams could pursue New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley. The Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles were thrown into the speculation yesterday and the Houston Texans have been linked to him as well.
However, Leonard added the Las Vegas Raiders, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots to the list of teams that are rumored to have an interest in the two-time Pro Bowler.
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It is surprising that the Raiders could pursue Barkley since he has a similar skill set to Jacobs. Plus, Barkley has a longer history of dealing with injuries than the team’s starting running back over the last few seasons. However, maybe there is something on Jacobs’ medicals or in his locker room history that might make Las Vegas more open to a change.