Longtime NFL scout breaks down Raiders’ wide receivers

The Raiders were supposed to be dramatically improved at wide receiver in 2019, but we all know what happened.

If you forgot, here’s your reminder:

Anyway, after that disaster, Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock, made getting better at receiver a high priority again this year, with the Raiders adding three receivers who should make their roster this season.

To get a feel of what to expect from the group individually, I enlisted the help of longtime NFL scout Matt Williamson, who worked for the Cleveland Browns and who now scouts for several publications.

Here’s what Williamson had to say about the 2020 Raiders’ receivers.

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Henry Ruggs III
Williamson: “I expect Ruggs to, of course, be a deep threat, but I also expect Las Vegas to get him the ball on quick hitters and slants as well. He’s good after the catch and that fits Derek Carr and the scheme.”

Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images

Tyrell Williams
Williamson: “I’m not sure how long he will be there, but he is a solid veteran who should help this season. Still a lot of speed there.”

Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images

Hunter Renfrow
Williamson: “I really like him. He should be the true slot type in the Wes Welker/Julian Edelman mold.”

Photo by Lance King/Getty Images

Bryan Edwards:
Williamson: “I am really excited about Edwards (who was the in the third round out of South Carolina) and I’m betting he is the top target guy starting in 2021. Edwards is good in all areas of the field, including red zone.”

Nelson Agholor/Zay Jones
Williamson: “I am not a big fan of Agholor and, especially, Zay Jones. Both are best out of the slot. Jones is more physical than Agholor, but not as explosive.”

Overview:
Williamson: “It is good group overall that I expect will take a little time to gel and mature, but should eventually do well.”