The Las Vegas Raiders rookies are reportedly shining in camp. One surprisingly more than others.
The early reports coming out of Las Vegas Raiders training camp state that the rookies have been standing out. With as many draft picks as the Raiders had, that’s certainly welcome news. The Raiders surprised some (though not us here at NFL Spin Zone) by taking speedster Henry Ruggs III over Jerry Jeudy and CeeDee Lamb. By many accounts though Ruggs looks to have the potential of the next great Raiders speed receiver.
The Raiders drafted another SEC receiver in the third round, Bryan Edwards out of South Carolina. A broken foot forced Edwards to miss out on running at the combine, which may explain his fall in the draft. As of right now, it’s looking like the Raiders may have found themselves a steal.
At 6-3 and 212 pounds, Edwards brings a refreshing physical dimension to a position that’s been more known for speed throughout the history of the Raiders. He’s already been described as “violent” by quarterback Derek Carr when it comes to going to get the ball and as a “freak talent”.
In a recent article by Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report, he named each team’s biggest “X-factor” heading into the season. His choice for the Raiders? Bryan Edwards.
Edwards has already drawn comparisons to veteran NFL receivers like Davante Adams, A.J. Green and Mike Williams. That is heavy praise for a third-round rookie competing with not only playing time with Tyrell Williams, Hunter Renfro and the aforementioned Ruggs but also a roster spot with guys like Nelson Agholor and Zay Jones.
This isn’t to say he’ll be starting outside week one, but Edwards is already getting first-team reps. If he pans out, he’d be a welcome addition to a suddenly deep core of young offensive weapons.
While Edwards’s role on the silver and black attack remains to be seen, Raider Nation should be very excited at the prospect of Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden finding yet another young player poised to break out.