The Oakland Raiders have turned their unfortunate relocation situation into a homecoming story, presenting Super Bowl champion Marshawn Lynch a chance to bring a championship to his hometown team. Lynch has already filed his paperwork to be reinstated in the NFL, working with the Seattle Seahawks towards a deal.
Seahawks general manager John Schneider stated that making a deal with Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie would be an easy process, with the deal remaining contingent upon an agreed upon deal between Lynch and the Raiders.
After processing the stinging defeat of the Las Vegas relocation, Oakland fans could have even more of a reason to come support their beloved team. The Raiders have two years remaining on their lease with the Oakland Coliseum, with the Oakland Coliseum already balking at a chance to play during the 2019 season.
However, it seems as though Lynch does have a likely chance to suite up for the silver and black, in front of his mother and the hometown fans. Head coach Jack Del Rio recently provided some insight into their previous meeting, stating that Lynch is excited at the idea of playing for the Raiders, via Vic Tafur of the San Francisco Chronicle:
Del Rio on meeting with Lynch: “Every indication he was excited to play for the Oakland #Raiders.”
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) April 21, 2017
Although Lynch and the Raiders are still disputing the final money figures, Lynch understands the opportunity presented to play for his hometown team during the Raiders final two seasons in Oakland.
Lynch appeared to be in great shape during his meeting at Oakland’s facility, with fresh legs after two seasons away from the NFL. The Cal Berkley alumnus stated that his retirement came partially because of the physical abuse he would take in the NFL, but a chance to play behind the Raiders offensive line would certainly alleviate some of those tough hits.
Oakland has set the draft as the deadline to a deal, with the 2017 NFL Draft starting on April 27.
We’ll likely receive a final verdict in the upcoming days, with most of the Raiders’ fan base hoping for a chance to see ‘Beast Mode’.