The Las Vegas Raiders lost star running back Josh Jacobs in free agency. Can Zamir White fill the void and become a breakout star in the 2024 NFL season?
Zamir White: A Potential Breakout Candidate
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay predicts Zamir White will be a breakout running back in 2024. White’s impressive performance in the latter half of the 2023 season suggests he’s ready to take on a larger role. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft from the University of Georgia, White saw limited action his rookie year.
White’s 2023 Season: A Late Surge
While his overall 2023 stats (451 yards, 1 touchdown, 4.3 yards per carry) might seem underwhelming, White’s performance significantly improved in the final weeks. He amassed 397 yards between Weeks 14 and 18, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. Two standout performances in Weeks 16 and 18 saw him rush for 145 and 112 yards, respectively.
The Raiders’ Offensive Challenges
The Raiders’ offense struggled in 2023, ranking 27th in the league. With Jacobs gone, the team faces significant questions about where its offensive production will come from. While star receiver Davante Adams provides a reliable target, he showed signs of decline last year.
Rookies and Quarterback Questions
The Raiders drafted tight end Brock Bowers, considered by many to be the top talent in the 2024 draft. However, uncertainty at the quarterback position remains a concern. Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew will compete for the starting role, but neither option guarantees consistent offensive success. O’Connell showed promise late last season with eight touchdowns and zero interceptions in his final four games.
Can White Carry the Load?
The Raiders need a strong running game to support their passing attack and alleviate pressure on their quarterbacks. White’s late-season surge suggests he has the potential to become a key contributor. If he can maintain that momentum, White could significantly impact the Raiders’ offensive performance in 2024. His ability to consistently gain yards will be crucial for the team’s success.
Conclusion: A Season of Opportunity
Zamir White faces a significant opportunity in 2024. With Josh Jacobs’ departure, the starting running back role is his for the taking. If White can capitalize on his late-season success, he could become a crucial piece of the Raiders’ offense and potentially a breakout star in the NFL. Can he consistently perform at a high level? The upcoming season will provide the answer.
