Las Vegas Raiders running back Zamir White has enjoyed a successful training camp thus far. The fourth-year ball-carrier has looked powerful and explosive at practice. That is reflected on the Raiders’ first unofficial depth chart, which has White listed slightly ahead of Raheem Mostert and Sincere McCormick.
White is entering a fate-deciding contract year. The former Georgia standout hasn’t met expectations through three seasons, but a fresh start under head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly could positively alter his career trajectory. White needs to continue impressing the staff.
Carroll recently praised White’s efforts.
“He really has sent a message that he’s the hammer,” Carroll responded to a question about what White has shown him at practice. “I love having different styles of running backs. His physicality that we’ve been celebrating with him, and we tell him we like the way he runs. Don’t try to be something that you’re not. Run heavy and run thick and tough like he does. I’m really excited about what he’s done.”
Rookie top-10 pick Ashton Jeanty is undeniably the Raiders’ workhorse at running back. Like Carroll said, the Raiders have terrific depth and competition behind him. Coach Kelly is expected to field a run-heavy offense, and Carroll appreciates a diverse backfield.
If White continues establishing himself as the “hammer,” per Carroll, it indicates the powerful back could earn short-yardage opportunities behind Jeanty. Perhaps White will receive notable carries near the goal-line via red-zone packages. The now-or-never ball-carrier could carve out a role for himself in Kelly’s offense.
