Raiders sign RB Rhodes to two-year contract

OAKLAND, California (Ticker) - Dominic Rhodes is headed from the NFL’s best team to the worst.

Less than two months after helping the Indianapolis Colts win the Super Bowl, the veteran running back signed a two-year contract with the Oakland Raiders on Friday.

Financial terms were not disclosed. ESPN.com reported the deal is worth $7.5 million.

Rhodes, 28, generated considerable interest as a free agent but chose the the Raiders, who went a league-worst 2-14 last season and have the first pick in next month’s NFL draft.

“I just want to come in here and help this team win,” Rhodes said in a statement. “It’s an honor to be here and an awesome experience to play for the Raiders. The whole history of the Raiders, I love it.”

Rhodes boosted his value by rushing for 113 yards and a touchdown in the Colts’ 29-17 victory over Chicago in Super Bowl XLI on February 4.

In Oakland, Rhodes could serve as an insurance policy for LaMont Jordan, who was limited to nine games last season with a knee injury.

“Dominic will be a dynamic presence that can diversify our offense both as a runner and pass catcher,” Raiders first-year coach Lane Kiffin said. “He is focused and determined to come here and compete immediately with our other running backs.”

Along with rookie Joseph Addai, Rhodes helped replace two-time rushing champion Edgerrin James in Indianapolis last season, running for 641 yards and five touchdowns.

Rhodes has rushed for 2,274 yards and 19 touchdowns in 71 career games, all with the Colts.