Las Vegas Raiders Coach Josh McDaniels knows veteran running back Brandon Bolden as well as anyone.
The former New England Patriots offensive coordinator was in New England for every one of Bolden’s eight seasons there, and together, they experienced three Super Bowl trips, including two titles.
McDaniels saw Bolden come into this league when he re-joined the Patriots after his coaching stint in Denver.
Now as the two enter their second season together in Las Vegas, McDaniels has been around for almost the entirety of Bolden’s NFL journey.
"I mean, an undrafted guy and now we're double digits in terms of his career,” McDaniels said when he addressed the media Sunday. “So, I think that speaks to his work ethic. I think it speaks to how quickly he learned how to take care of his body. He realizes that he's got some really strong assets that can help a team in multiple ways, and he's done a great job of taking care of his legs and being able to run at a high level. Still has great speed. And now he's imparting wisdom both on offense and in the kicking game.
“Super unselfish guy. Very valuable in a lot of different roles and great leadership; practices hard every single day, does the right thing off the field. Just a pleasure to be around. We're fortunate that he's here and able to rub off on some of our younger guys, but still able to contribute a significant role in multiple ways for us this year, and he did last year.”
Bolden was signed by New England as an undrafted free agent in 2012 out of Mississippi.
He totaled 1,206 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns, as well as 959 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns in his 115 games as a Patriot.
Bolden joined the Raiders last year, having finished his 2022 campaign with 66 rushing yards, 57 receiving yards, and one touchdown.
The Silver and Black open the preseason by hosting the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Aug. 13, at 4 p.m. EDT/1 p.m. PDT.
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