Purdue tight end Gabe Holmes visited Raiders

After missing out on a receiving tight end in free agency, the Raiders remain in the market for one. In that pursuit, they hosted Purdue tight end, Gabe Holmes according to Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post.

Holmes becomes the second player the Raiders have hosted who played in the College Gridiron Showcase in Arlington Texas. The also recently worked out Miles College corner Travis Lee.

Holmes caught a career best 25 passes and 2 touchdowns his sophomore season. As a senior he had career highs in receiving yards (178) along with 2 touchdowns last season. But he feels like he is capable of much more.

"Playing in two different offenses, I lined up a lot in the slot as a standup tight end," Holmes said. "I have strengths lining up in the slot and creating separation. I played in a pro-style offense, lining up tight or in the wing or in the slot. I feel like I can make plays. . . I haven't scratched my ceiling yet."

The 6-5, 258-pounder ran a 4.7 40-yard dash at his Pro Day. That time would have been good for third among tight ends at the scouting combine.

Like many intriguing tight end prospects these days, Holmes is a former basketball player. He didn't pick up football until his sophomore year of high school.

Several teams have shown interest in Holmes including the Cardinals and Dolphins. He said teams like his upside. He met with Reggie McKenzie when he visited the Raiders.

"It was a good trip," said Holmes. "We just broke down some of my film and offenses and defenses. They told me they liked me as a person and as a player."

Holmes figures to be either a late round draft pick or go undrafted.

Follow @LeviDamien