Kenyan Drake signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders this offseason, with $8.5 million fully guaranteed at signing. For context, Drake's average annual salary is the 13th-highest at his position. The RB recently alluded to having a big role in the Raiders' offense, saying, "I'm definitely excited to see how our roles continue to develop with obviously Josh [Jacobs] being the main guy to do what he needs to do because I have much respect and love for him and his game and what coach [Jon] Gruden has planned for us in that specific capacity. But I feel like I might have a big role in this offense. With them being a top 10 offense last year, the sky is the limit for us. I'm ready to see us take it to the next level." (NFL.com)
Fantasy Impact
With Jacobs locked into the early-down runner role for the Raiders, Drake's big role has to come as a pass-catcher. Here's a fun fact: Drake's totaled 1,000-plus scrimmage yards each of the past three seasons. Last season, the RB nearly eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards but in the two prior seasons, Drake totaled at least 65-plus targets, 50-plus receptions, and 345 receiving yards. Darren Waller's the clear No. 1 in the pass-catching pecking order, but Drake just has to compete with Hunter Renfrow [7.3-yard average target distance] for short, high-percentage targets. Henry Ruggs [17.4], Bryan Edwards [9.8], and newly-signed John Brown [12.9] project for deeper targets based on prior usage.