Oakland Raiders: 5 Key Veterans That Need To Step Up

May 19, 2015; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders receiver

(15) at organized team activities at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

3. WR Michael Crabtree

Ok, laugh if you want, but know this: Michael Crabtree is currently the most experienced wide receiver on the Oakland Raiders roster. This applies to both in-game experiences, as he has been in multiple playoff games and a Super Bowl, and in time in the league, as he is a six-year veteran of the NFL. Crabtree has undoubtedly had some ups and downs with his maturity and production, but if there was ever a time that an NFL team needed him to step up as a leader it’s this team in 2015.

Oakland has brought in Amari Cooper, a guy many have slated to be not only a key contributor in his first season but a player that could challenge for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

The team hopes that three-year pro Rod Streater contributes and stays healthy all year. Beyond that, the Raiders have a several guys in Kenbrell Thompkins, Kris Durham, and Andre Holmes that can break out, but it would be a surprise if any of those guys become big production players. More importantly, all of these guys are young; most of them have three or fewer years in the league.

Crabtree must step up with his actions and words to lead this young group, as they will be key to an offensive turn around this season.

Next: A veteran back must step up