Raiders RB Maurice Jones-Drew Contemplated Retirement After Last Season

Oakland Raiders RB Maurice Jones-Drew recently mentioned that he considered retiring following his disappointing 2013 season.

“For awhile, I was contemplating retirement because I just didn’t feel like I had it anymore,” said Jones-Drew, via Sam Farmer of the Los Angeles Times. “But that wasn’t the case. My trainer helped me get back in shape and gain that foundation that I’d lost with the surgery.”

Jones-Drew credits his extensive workout regimen for his optimism this offseason, while adding that he is more comfortable with his body at age 29.

“I’m in the best shape of my life now, running fast, running hills, pulling sleds, cutting, jumping,” said Jones-Drew. “I’ve rededicated myself to my craft again.”

Jones-Drew, 29, signed a three-year contract worth $7.50 million, which included $1,200,000 guaranteed back in March.

He averaged a career-low 3.4 yards-per-carry over the course of 15 games last season.

Jones-Drew will have to compete with Darren McFadden and Latavius Murray for the No. 1 running back role in training camp, but it appears as though the Raiders are prepared to move forward with some sort of timeshare this season.