Overview
- Multiple outlets confirmed that the Raiders released veteran running back Dare Ogunbowale during 53-man roster cuts on Sunday, a move first reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero.
- The decision removes an experienced backup from the depth chart while starter Ashton Jeanty recovers from a high-ankle sprain and is not expected to be fully available at the opener.
- With Ogunbowale gone, the active RB group on the roster now centers on Jeanty with Mike Washington Jr. and Dylan Laube as the primary backups and Roman Hemby as a possible fourth option.
- Coverage and analysts say the move may be roster 'gymnastics' intended to allow the Raiders to keep younger players on the 53-man roster and then re-sign Ogunbowale to the practice squad or chase claims on waivers.
- The cut raises a short-term risk for Las Vegas’s run-first plans because Ogunbowale’s seven years of NFL experience and solid preseason work would have offered veteran insurance if Jeanty misses multiple games.