Though the Oakland Raiders have yet to sign retired running back Marshawn Lynch, coach Jack Del Rio told members of the media Friday that Beast Mode is all in on the Silver and Black.
When asked about Lynch’s status at a pre-draft press conference early Friday morning, Del Rio said “every indication is he is excited to play for the Oakland Raiders,” per ESPN’s Paul Gutierrez.
Additionally, Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie confirmed the door will remain open to Lynch beyond the 2017 NFL draft despite previous reports highlighting the draft as the Raiders’ deadline.
Of course, McKenzie & Co. would like to have Lynch’s decisions prior to the draft to best prepare their draft board, but keeping Beast Mode in the mix beyond April 27-29 significantly increases his chances of landing in Oakland prior to the 2017 season.
The fact Lynch is still excited to join the Raiders should encourage Raider Nation that they will indeed be celebrating the return of Beast Mode at some point this offseason.
