Latavius Murray to Raiders: How Does the RB Fit in Oakland?

With the 13 pick in the sixth round, the Raiders took a large and fast RB prospect in Latavius Murray out of Central Florida.

Murray is very big for a running back, at 6'2" 223 lbs. Despite that height and weight, he reportedly ran his 40-yard dash in under 4.4 seconds, which is a very impressive speed.

Murray had a productive four-year career at Central Florida, carrying the ball over 450 times and averaging 5.4 yards per carry with 37 rushing TD. He added 50 receptions for another six receiving touchdowns.

The Competition

The Raiders have a spectacular runner in Darren McFadden at the top of the depth chart.

However, McFadden has struggled with an assortment of injuries every single season, and there is no reason to believe he will be able to play in all 16 games in 2013, either.

Behind McFadden, currently, is Rashad Jennings, formerly with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Jennings had a terrible year last season, earning only 2.8 yards per carry in 2012 after coming off a knee injury. However, he rushed for more than five yards per carry in the two years prior and, if healthy, can be an explosive running back behind McFadden.

Where Does Murray Fit in Oakland?

Murray will come into camp third on the depth chart, but due to both McFadden and Jennings' injury histories, he could be a starter by the middle of the season.

Last year, this happened when McFadden and his primary backup Mike Goodson went down in the same game and Jeremy Stewart had to step up and start.

Murray has a great size/speed combo, and running back is the easiest position for players to quickly acclimate.

Murray will also likely be a force on special teams. With his size and speed, he would make an ideal "gunner" on punts and kickoffs.