Jalen Richard’s path to the NFL wasn’t easy. Now in his third year as a Raiders running back and with a new contract, he’s making football more accessible to the youth in his hometown of Alexandria, La.
And he still doesn’t take his own accomplishments for granted.
Richard hosted his second annual youth football camp in his home state, as reported by KALB Sports on June 23. It was an ideal time for the Southern Mississippi product to reflect on his career thus far.
“I’ve been blessed, man. I wake up every day and it’s like a dream,” Richard said. “I’m just trying to continue to work hard and prove to myself I’m not taking any of it for granted.”
Richard initially joined the Raiders in 2016 after being invited to audition for a training camp opportunity at rookie minicamp. He made the team that year and had a 75-yard touchdown run on his first carry as a professional.
Now considered an integral component of the Raiders offense, the club placed a $3.095 million second-round tender on Richard, which he signed in April, according to Over the Cap.
Richard hasn’t missed a game since coming to Oakland, gaining 1,025 rushing yards with an average of 5.3 yards per tote and 1,057 yards receiving on 124 catches. He can also return kicks and was a Pro Bowl alternate as a return specialist in 2016.
Richard’s role this season figures to be as a receiver out of the backfield, especially with first-round pick, RB Josh Jacobs set to join the team. The 5-foot-8, 205-pound Richard has to hold onto the ball tightly to keep his role, however. He’s fumbled 11 times in the last two campaigns.
But eight of those miscues were in 2017 when nothing went right for Oakland. Richard appears to be poised for another productive season. He’s still humble and taking care of those from his hometown, even after his unexpected success.
