Silver Minings: Greg Olson has all the confidence in the world in Zay Jones

The Las Vegas Raiders depth at wide receiver has dwindled this week to unforeseen circumstances. At the same time, fans look at Odell Beckham Jr. and DeSean Jackson, a player on the Raiders roster ready to take the stage.

Zay Jones is considered one of the hardest workers on the practice field, but it hasn’t rolled over into production. Jones has had 40 catches with the franchise since 2019. The time is now for Jones to have a role in this offense.

Greg Olson has confidence in the former second-round pick to hit the ground running and make the most of the opportunity.

“We always talk about opportunity and it comes in a lot of different forms,” said offensive coordinator Greg Olson. “This is an opportunity for Zay – not the opportunity he was looking for – but we always felt real strong about Zay Jones and his abilities as a receiver and his abilities to play the Z [receiver] position. He’s had a very good week of practice, but he’s had good weeks of practice in the past. If you were to talk to not only Derek, but the rest of the players on offense ... they have all the confidence in the world in Zay, and we do as well as the staff.

“Very thankful to have him and we’re eager to see what he can do.”

Raider nation is eager as well, and Jones has prepared for this challenge. Let’s see if he rises to the occasion.

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• RIP former Raiders DC John Marshall: On Friday, former Raiders DC John Marshall passed away, and the Raiders paid tribute on Twitter.