5 NFL Running Backs Who Will Improve In 2017 (And 5 Who Won't)

Beast Mode is back, bay-bay! One of the best running backs of the past decade and one of the NFL's all-time most colorful characters, Marshawn Lynch is returning from a one year hiatus from the sport. However, instead of making a triumphant return to the Seattle Seahawks, he's playing for his hometown Oakland Raiders, an entirely different situation that could be perfect for him at his age.

Lynch hasn't played since 2015, when he only appeared in 7 games before being sidelined with a sports hernia. However, he was still playing at the top of his abilities before the injury. It makes sense to believe that after a year of rest, Lynch is ready to return to the NFL with a vengeance and he'll be able to achieve that in Oakland.

The Raiders boast one of the best offensive lines and one of the most explosive passing games in the league. Between Derek Carr, Amari Cooper, and an o-line made of bricks and fists, opposing defenses are going to have too much on their hands to hinder Beast Mode and his relentless ground assault.