Las Vegas Raiders fans, it’s time to tackle a pressing question: Should we be concerned about starting running back Zamir White’s low Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranking? With the 2024 season on the horizon, the spotlight is on White, and opinions are divided.
Pro Football Focus’s Take on Zamir White
Pro Football Focus recently released its starting RB rankings, and Zamir White found himself at the bottom. PFF’s Thomas Valentine remarked, “White’s body of work is a little unknown at the NFL level, but maybe that can work to his advantage in 2024. However, he’ll have his work cut out for him behind a mixed-bag Las Vegas offensive line. White averaged 3.21 yards after contact per attempt in 2023, 13th in the NFL.”
White, selected 122nd overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, has yet to make a significant impact. In his first two seasons, he rushed for only 521 yards and one touchdown. This has raised eyebrows, especially after the Raiders let former first-team All-Pro RB Josh Jacobs sign a lucrative four-year, $48 million deal with the Green Bay Packers.
Can This Be Zamir White’s Breakout Season?
Despite these concerns, there’s optimism about White’s potential. In 2023, when Jacobs was sidelined with a quadriceps injury, White stepped up. During the last four games of the season, he averaged an impressive 99.25 rushing yards per game, leading the Raiders to a 3-1 record in that stretch.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay identified White as a breakout candidate for 2024. Kay highlighted, “The 6-foot, 215-pound back utilizes a hard-nosed, downhill, one-cut skill set to great effect, a style of running that fits perfectly with the culture the team is seeking to establish under new head coach Antonio Pierce. His impressive audition for the role last season indicates a star in the making.”
Importance of a Strong Ground Game
White emerging as a reliable starter would be a game-changer for the Raiders. Whether Aidan O’Connell or Gardner Minshew II wins the starting QB job, Las Vegas will need a robust ground attack to maintain a balanced offense and compete for a playoff spot.
A strong performance from White could alleviate pressure on the quarterback and open up the passing game, making the Raiders’ offense more dynamic and less predictable.
Optimism Amid Uncertainty
While PFF’s low ranking for Zamir White might be cause for concern, there are reasons to be optimistic. His performance in the final games of the 2023 season showcased his potential, and with a supportive offensive line and a clear vision from head coach Antonio Pierce, White could surprise his critics.
Las Vegas Raiders fans should keep a close eye on White’s progress. If he can build on his late-season success and become a consistent force in the backfield, the Raiders’ offense could be poised for a breakout year.
