Raiders notebook: Injury concerns about several Las Vegas players

Las Vegas Raiders’ coach Jon Gruden met with the media on Tuesday, one day after their 28-14 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium.

Here are some highlights of the session:

Injury concerns:
Gruden read out a long list of players who are getting MRIs after Monday night’s game. He mentioned cornerbacks Trayvon Mullen (foot) and Damon Arnette (groin), tight end Derek Carrier (pec), running back Peyton Barber (toe). Also, cornerback Nate Hobbs was checked for a concussion. Cornerback Casey Hayward had cramps and he should be fine.

Gruden said he didn’t want to “break any bad news” Tuesday, but he was concerned some of the injuries could be long-term. He said running back Jalen Richard may practice more this week as he tries to come off the injured reserve. He said there were no further information on guard Richie Incognito and linebackers Nicholas Morrow and Javin White, who are also on thee injured reserve.

Renfrow’s play:
Raiders’ receiver Hunter Renfrow was the talk of the football world on Monday night when he blew up a fake punt attempt by looking like an all-pro safety from his punt-return position. Gruden was still buzzing about it the next day.

“One of the best plays I’ve ever seen,“ Gruden said Tuesday. “Effort, instincts, understanding the game, and making the play. This guy is an amazing football player. I wish we had four of those guys. He’s something else.”

Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images

Leatherwood’s play:
Rookie right tackle Alex Leatherwood — who was a surprise choice at the No. 17 overall pick in the 2021 draft — has struggled at times, along with most of the Las Vegas offensive line. On Tuesday, Gruden said the Alabama product is “a work in progress” and he knows there will be “growing pains.” Still, the Raiders are standing by Leatherwood and are committed to work through his early-career issues.

Bosa’s comments:
Chargers’ star pass-rusher Joey Bosa, who hounded Raiders’ quarterback Derek Carr all of. Monday night, made headlines after the game by saying Carr got “shook” and he “shuts down.” Gruden was asked about Bosa’s comments on Tuesday, and while he didn’t say much, it was clear the coach wasn’t thrilled by the harsh words.

He said Bosa was “entitled” to say what he wants and he and Carr both respect him, but he added “we love our quarterback.” Expect this subject to be revisited in Week 18 when these two teams meet in Las Vegas,