The Las Vegas Raiders recently wrapped up their mandatory minicamp this week. It was an exciting opportunity to learn more about the team’s planning for next season. Of those impressive performances, there may be none greater than rookie cornerback Jakorian Bennett, who returned to action after recovering from a shoulder injury. Tight end Michael Mayer impressed fans and coaches alike with notable plays, while several players battled for key positions on a squad that seeks improvement after last season’s struggles.
He worked with the second team during the mini camp, but it didn’t take long for Jakorian Bennett to flash his ball skills. He’s still recovering from a torn labrum that limited him to only 10 games last year. Joining him, Decamerion Richardson, who played significant snaps with the second unit, helped solidify the second team’s defensive performance. If they do, their efforts may prove key in establishing a strong secondary as the Raiders get ready for what could be a difficult 2024 season.
Starting alongside Meyer was 2023 second-round pick and surprise standout Michael Mayer, who caught a ridiculous touchdown pass from quarterback Geno Smith that had everyone wowed. His very impressive minicamp certainly was a premier upside. Over his first two seasons, he piled up solid base numbers, totaling 460 yards and two touchdowns off 48 receptions. In the end, the Raiders can only hope that Mayer can play a prominent role in the Raiders new offensive strategy going forward.
Offensive Development and Leadership
Smith has emerged as a commanding presence in the locker room. During his media availability, he expressed his optimism in the team’s offensive growth. His leadership on the field will be essential as the Raiders continue pushing to spark an offensive explosion. Last year, Las Vegas struggled tremendously with their ground game. They averaged a paltry 3.6 yards per carry, ranking as the least productive rushing attack in the NFL.
“You got to run the ball to be able to win the game, and that’s been impressed on us every single day.” – Jackson Powers-Johnson
Fortunately, the Raiders’ coaching staff seems aware of these deficiencies. They are putting in long hours to try and create a more level playing field offensive strategy.
It’s offensive line coach Brennan Carroll who’s been the major component in making sure all of those talented players turn into one nasty, brutish offensive oline. Head coach Pete Carroll raved about the progress shown by the offensive line during minicamp.
“[Offensive line coach Brennan Carroll] has done a nice job of getting all these guys to look uniformed.” – Pete Carroll
These comments shine a light on the focus on doing the little things right as the team gets ready to head into training camp.
“Their hand placement is really good. Communication seems to be sharp.” – Pete Carroll
All over the defensive line were encouraging signs especially during minicamp. Adam Butler and Leki Fotu took on first-team roles as defensive tackles, providing much-needed presence in the middle of the field. Their performance will be key in bolstering a defensive unit that had a myriad of issues last season.
Defensive Line Adjustments and Challenges
That was not the only news, or all of it good, on the injury front. There was all-pro defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who sat out the entirety of minicamp. He is currently rehabbing from a Jones fracture he had earlier this offseason. Wilkins agreed on a four-year, $110 million deal (all inclusive) last offseason with $84.75 million in guarantees. When healthy, he’s primed to start and be a playmaker on this team. His absence certainly left a gap there, one that should be fiercer as they head into training camp.
The Raiders are taking a hard look at their cornerback depth chart too. Darien Porter and Eric Stokes were the top-performing first-team cornerbacks of minicamp. Taken together, their performances revealed all the ways they could dominate and win epic Lawry’s-meaty matchups. Their performances may be closely watched as they both look to establish themselves in a deep, competitive secondary.
As the team looks to shape its roster for the season ahead, some of these youngsters have proven capable of being integral pieces this year. Ashton Jeanty turned heads throughout their recent minicamp, putting himself in consideration for the team’s featured RB job. His evolution might mitigate some fears over last time’s rushing woes if he’s able to provide that kind of reliable production.
Rising Stars and Future Expectations
The other significant name was Georgia’s Brock Bowers, who had multiple plays that jumped out during the workout. His recent contributions have sparked more optimism than expected on the Raiders’ tight end unit. This small group is more than ready to aid Mayer in setting up mismatches against enemy defenses.
Kolton Miller provided insights into Bennett’s off-field maturity despite not fully showcasing his abilities during minicamp due to recovery from injury.
Both teammates and coaches are confident in Bennett’s potential to have a breakout season. Continuing at this pace, success is definitely in his future!
“He can’t show his full ability right now, but off the field, he’s very mature.” – Kolton Miller
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