It’s now or never for former Alabama running back Trent Richardson.
He showed up to Raiders’ training camp Thursday, after missing the first five session on the non-football illness list. Oakland’s head coach Jack Del Rio wants the former Crimson Tide standout to slim down to his playing weight of 220 pounds, his playing weight at Alabama.
According to Bill Williamson, staff writer for ESPN, the Raiders gave Richardson $600,000 guaranteed, in hopes that he could commit to staying healthy and showcase his athleticism.
The 25-year-old told ESPN that he was battling pneumonia prior to the start of fall camp, but is feeling better now. Richardson has an opportunity to revive his career in Oakland.
Former Auburn and Louisville running back Michael Dyer has been stellar in Richardson’s absence. Dyer and Latavius Murray are both competing with Richardson for the starting job.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine, Pick Six Previews and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
