Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson
Those who opposed Oakland's selection of Arkansas running back Darren McFadden with the No. 4 because of the Raiders' crowded backfield can relax a little. The running back crew is a little less crowded.
Oakland cut Dominic Rhodes after one disappointing season with the Raiders. Oakland had to cut a veteran because the Fabian Washington trade to Baltimore put it over the salary cap.
Now, McFadden joins Justin Fargas, Michael Bush and Lamont Jordan in Oakland's backfield. It wouldn't be a surprise if Jordan, who has slowed down in recent seasons and he'll turn 30 this season, is cut. Thus, Oakland's tailback group could consist of McFadden, Fargas and Bush, who is still recuperating from a leg injury he suffered in the fall of 2006. Thus, the group wouldn't be overly crowded and the Raiders could probably find significant carries for all three players.
As for Rhodes, he may have difficulty getting a new job. He is 29 and he has had off-field issues. He'll probably get some looks but it may be closer to training camp. One team that could consider him may be Denver. The Broncos liked Rhodes while he was with the Colts and he fits their style. But the Broncos are close to their 2008 budget and they have veteran Travis Henry, so an addition of Rhodes could be a tough sell in Denver unless Henry was no longer in the mix.
