Raiders Runningback Position Plan Doesn’t Include Cedric Benson

Raiders head coach Dennis Allen mentioned that they plan using running backs Mike Goodson and Taiwan Jones as Darren McFadden‘s backup, rather than sign free agent Cedric Benson, per Jerry McDonald.

It’s hard to say if Benson will be able to secure a job before the start of the season. The Redskins and Packers have been rumored to have minimal interest as well.

——————-

Chris Russell of ESPN 980 Washington reports that the Redskins “have yet to express any real or official interest” in RB Cedric Benson, despite the previous reports that suggested that both he and Ryan Grant could be options.

——————-

Redskins RB Tim Hightower ran with a “slight hitch” during the first training camp practice yesterday, according to the Washington Post.

Hightower is coming off of a torn ACL, so it’s really not surprising to hear that he’s dealing some small issues. The Redskins backfield is impossible to figure out at this point, mainly because of Mike Shanahan, but Roy Helu and Evan Royster figure to see more work this season, even if Shanahan prefers Hightower.

———————

[polldaddy poll=6420377]

Earlier today, Rich Campbell at the Washington Times reported that coach Mike Shanahan “would not commit to a first-string running back.” Roy Helu, Tim Hightower and Evan Royster all took first-team reps earlier today.

Perhaps Shanahan is reluctant to tell us who his starting RB will be because he doesn’t feel that player is yet on the roster. Jason La Canfora tweeted today that free agents Cedric Benson and Ryan Grant have been discussed internally.

This is proving to be quite the predicament for Shanahan, as several of these running backs have similar numbers. The following chart represents each player’s 2011 statistics:

As you can see, Shanahan’s current options amount to a hodge-podge of average.  Helu seems like he should be given another shot in his 2nd season, but with the ‘Skins still scouring the free agent market, no one knows for sure.

Who do you think the Redskins should feature in the backfield? Vote in the poll and leave a comment below!