Taiwan Jones Reportedly Will Be Released by Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders are reportedly set to release running back Taiwan Jones.

Adam Schefter of ESPN first reported the news Thursday.

Oakland selected Jones in the fourth round of the 2011 NFL draft.

The 29-year-old Eastern Washington product has played an extremely limited offensive role over the past five seasons with the Raiders. He's tallied just 44 carries for 183 yards and 17 catches for 240 yards and a touchdown across 65 games.

His main contributions have come on special teams, where he's been a kickoff returner and a member of the coverage team. He also spent time as a defensive back, his original college position, for two years starting in 2013 before moving back exclusively to offense.

Alas, the offseason addition of former Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch left the Raiders overcrowded at the position. Jones was expected to compete with DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard for backup snaps before his release.

The move is a good sign for Elijah Hood, the team's seventh-round pick in this year's draft, as the rookie rusher now faces one less competitor en route to earning a roster spot.

Jones' versatility should give him a strong chance to land with a new team during training camp, even if he has to wait until injury issues begin to arise.

Oakland is set to open camp Saturday after veterans report Friday.