Why the Raiders Should Keep Seth Roberts
There is no doubt that the Raider’s offense was one of the best in the NFL in 2016. They have an elite quarterback in Derek Carr. He has two great receiving threats in Michael Crabtree and Amari Cooper. Oakland also boasts one of the best O-Lines in the AFC. Even with all the talent on offense, general manager Reggie McKenzie has to make the decision whether or not to keep third-string wide receiver Seth Roberts, or to go after a bigger name as the Raiders look to make another playoff run before moving to Las Vegas. For now, this decision is still unknown.
Clutch Player
Though Seth Roberts‘ numbers were slightly down from 2015, he has proven to be a big time play-maker. In fact, two of Roberts’ five TD’s were go-ahead game winners. The first week of the season, Roberts caught a touchdown that led to Jack Del Rio‘s gutsy two-point conversion that set the tone for Oakland’s breakout season. The other snag was a forty-one yard game winner against Tampa Bay, the infamous game in which the Raiders set the record for the most accepted penalties in one game.
Inexpensive
Oakland signed Seth Roberts to a $525K contract in 2016. It seems logical to assume that the Raiders would be able to re-sign him for less than $700K in 2017, if they choose to take that route. This price is a steal based on his production, especially compared to other receivers on the market. This will allow more money to be allocated to upgrading tight-ends, defensive backs, or running backs.
No Better Alternative
Reggie McKenzie makes some of his best moves in free agency. There is no way he is going to be throwing cash at a big free agent receiver with Crabtree and Cooper already on the squad. This takes players like Anquan Boldin, Brian Quick, and Markus Wheaton out of the equation. Free agent receivers with affordable salaries (Brandon Tate, Quinton Patton, Andre Roberts) did not put up the production that Roberts did in 2016. With no realistic free agent bargains, it is best for McKenzie to stick with Roberts.
Intangibles
Aside from his 6’2, 196lb frame and 4.4 speed, Seth Roberts is the product of uphill battles. An All-Conference wideout at West Alabama, Roberts was an signed as an undrafted free agent in 2014. He and Derek Carr endured a turbulent 3-13 rookie season together, but watched their franchise turn around by 2016. Seth Roberts exemplifies the work ethic and grittiness that coaches and quarterbacks love to see in any slot receiver. There is no need for the Raiders to risk losing an integral component of their offense. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
