After Alexander Mattison’s injury, Sincere McCormick has emerged as a potential starting running back for the Las Vegas Raiders. Can he solidify his position in the remaining games?
The Las Vegas Raiders are struggling with a 2-11 record this season, and the injury to starting running back Alexander Mattison added another challenge. However, this setback has created an opportunity for third-year player Sincere McCormick to showcase his talent. Head Coach Antonio Pierce has been impressed with McCormick’s development and performance.
From Practice Squad to Potential Starter
McCormick spent time on the practice squad before getting his chance to shine in the Week 13 loss against the Denver Broncos. With Mattison’s injury in the following game against the Kansas City Chiefs, McCormick stepped up, rushing for 64 yards on 12 carries. His first NFL start came in Week 14 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he delivered an impressive 78 yards on 15 carries, averaging 5.2 yards per carry against a formidable Buccaneers’ run defense.
Christian Izien #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tackles Sincere McCormick #28 of the Las Vegas Raiders during the second half of an NFL football ga…
Alt: Las Vegas Raiders running back Sincere McCormick evades a tackle from Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Christian Izien during a Week 14 NFL game.
McCormick’s College Dominance
McCormick’s success isn’t surprising considering his impressive college career at UTSA. Despite playing for a non-Power Five school, he amassed 2,946 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns in 2020 and 2021, averaging an impressive 5.4 yards per carry. This college performance suggests he has the potential to excel in the NFL.
Coach Pierce’s Confidence in McCormick
The Raiders face numerous challenges on both offense and defense. Solidifying the running back position with a reliable player like McCormick would be a significant step forward. Coach Pierce has publicly expressed his confidence in McCormick, challenging him to reach 100 rushing yards in a game.
McCormick: A Cost-Effective Solution?
Mattison’s one-year, $2 million contract expires at the end of the season. McCormick, on the other hand, is under contract until 2026 with a significantly lower salary of $960,000 for next season. This affordability could allow the Raiders to invest in other positions and address more pressing needs, such as potentially drafting a quarterback in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Future of the Raiders’ Backfield
The Raiders are hopeful that McCormick will continue to improve and solidify his role as the starting running back. His recent performances suggest he has the potential to be a long-term solution for the team. The final games of the season will be crucial for McCormick to prove he can consistently perform at a high level and earn the starting role.
The Raiders’ future success hinges on the development of young players like McCormick. If he continues on this trajectory, he could become a key contributor to the team’s rebuilding efforts. Will McCormick cement his place as the Raiders’ lead running back? Only time will tell.
