Raiders News: Jalen Richard Was Ready For Big Moment Against Chargers
Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Going into the 2019 season, the Oakland Raiders had a lot of question marks at the running back position. Even though they had spent the 24th overall pick on Josh Jacobs, Isaiah Crowell was set to be the starting running back.

However, disaster overtook Crowell’s season as he suffered a torn Achilles tendon early in the offseason. That didn’t end up being the worst thing though as it allowed for Jacobs to be the starter from Week 1, and he has developed into one of the better backs in the league.

The Raiders’ running back room still had serviceable players behind Jacobs, including DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard. Both have served crucial roles over the season, but Richard in particula stepped up this past Thursday in the Raiders’ win over the Los Angeles Chargers

After seeing nearly no touches in the first half, Richard hauled in three big receptions on the Raiders’ final drive that led to the game-winning touchdown by Jacobs. According to Scott Blair of NBC Sports, Richard made sure he was ready for that moment so he would be able to produce when his team needed him:

“There’s a level of calm and confidence, but I also like to put it on my shoulders in big moments,” Richard said. “I’m out there every third down, and that’s the most important down in football. That gives me confidence because the coaches trust me to make a play when we really need it. It doesn’t matter if it’s a carry, a catch or a block, I’m ready to perform. I’m confident in myself and my ability. When my number’s called, I’m going to go out there and make a play.”

Richard has been having success as a receiver this season, particularly on third down. So far in nine games, he has recorded 232 yards from scrimmage with 163 of them coming through the air on 18 receptions.

Perhaps the best thing about Richard is that he understands he is not going to be the team’s starting running back, but still wants to have success in his role:

“When you can get everybody’s juices going, that’s huge,” Richard said. “This is a game of momentum, even on individual drives. Sometimes, all it takes is a spark to get everybody going. That’s what I try to do.”

While being a star is great for the individual, knowing your role is great for the team. Richard knows that he has the responsibility of stepping up when called on, no matter the situation. With that mentality, the Raiders team success will lead to a great season as they look to get back to the postseason.