The Las Vegas Raiders once again find themselves thin at the wide receiver position. The Raiders released Henry Ruggs III late Tuesday night after the tragic events that transpired earlier in the day. It took a while to feel comfortable talking football again, as Tuesday left most of us numb and without words. However, the Raiders are now left with a gaping hole on the wide receiver depth chart. How will they address this situation? There are plenty of options at wide receiver for the Raiders, but which way will they go with some of the star-studded names available or the homegrown talent?
Options at Wide Receiver For the Las Vegas Raiders
Odell Beckham Jr.
The Cleveland Browns released Odell Beckham Jr. today after a tumultuous week in Cleveland with the star wideout. The question isn’t whether Beckham Jr. is a good fit for the Raiders on the field, but is he a good fit in the locker room, and will he be available? The Raiders have had so much turmoil from top to bottom this season, that bringing on a personality like Beckham Jr. may not be ideal.
However, on the football field, Beckham Jr. seems to be getting healthier and can easily step into a prominent role. Beckham Jr. is two years removed from back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and the hope would be that the dynamic player is still there. Although everything points to a good fit, the question is, does general manager Mike Mayock take another risk on character.
Desean Jackson
Even at his age, Desean Jackson is the closest thing the Raiders can find to Henry Ruggs III skillset. In 2021 with the Los Angeles Rams, Jackson averaged over 29 yards per catch, showing the ability to take the top off the defense. So, if the Raiders are looking for a slightly less dramatic addition to the offense Jackson could be their guy.
Since Jackson cleared waivers he is free to sign with anyone and the Raiders seem like a good fit. Not only will Jackson help them stretch the field post-Ruggs III, but the Raiders can also offer him solid playing time. This fit seems like a win-win for the Raiders and Jackson. If Jackson is in fact added to the Raiders roster, he could offer some veteran leadership that is desperately needed.
Keep it in House
If the Raiders decide to pass on the big-name free agents available, they have some options in house. With the recent signing of practice squad wide receiver Dillon Stoner and fellow practice squad players Marcell Ateman, D.J. Turner, and Javon Wims they have some options.
Wims and Ateman have the most pro experience, which could lean in their favor. Ideally, the Raiders can get solid snaps out of these players and replace some of their recently lost depth. It seems Dillon Stoner will get the first chance to earn some playing time, and the others may not be far behind him in gaining opportunities. The Raiders offense has plenty of firepower and may not be as desperate to sign an out-of-house option.
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