Maurice Jones-Drew, who has spent his entire career as running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars, is moving on to the Oakland Raiders. He has reportedly signed a three-year deal with the team.
The news was first reported by ESPN, but the site notes that the deal is not done. Jones-Drew reportedly spoke with the Raiders on Thursday and said he’d like to play for his hometown team. He also has a permanent residence there. It is also the best place for him to have a chance to start.
Per a Raiders source, Oakland has agreed to a three-year deal with Maurice Jones-Drew, pending a physical. (As @AdamSchefter said)
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 28, 2014
MJD spent his first eight years in the league with the Jaguars, notes NLF.com. He racked up over 8,000 rushing yards and 68 touchdowns, but his production was limited during an injury-plagued season in 2013. Still, he would be replacing Darren McFadden, who also missed games last season.
The Raiders are trying desperately to be competitive for the first time in a decade. The team has signed Justin Tuck, Donald Penn and Matt Schaub. They finished last in the AFC West last season with only four wins.