Las Vegas Raiders: 3 X-factor players for Week 2 vs. Saints
By Samuel Teets
2. Hunter Renfrow, WR
Hunter Renfrow fell to the fifth round in last year’s draft because he wasn’t an extremely productive receiver at Clemson. Renfrow isn’t a physically dominant player either. However, the 24-year-old who looks like he’s 34 always finds ways to get open. He’s a crisp route runner who is on the same page as Derek Carr, which opens a lot of opportunities against New Orleans.
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Against a defensive backfield that features Malcolm Jenkins, Marshon Lattimore, and Marcus Williams, Renfrow could become crucial for Carr’s success. The Saints fooled Tom Brady multiple times last week, intercepting two passes and holding the star to a 78.4 passer rating. New Orleans also held Mike Evans to one reception for two yards.
Releasing from the slot, Renfrow faces less traffic and pressure than outside receivers. He also receives an easier matchup. Even if Renfrow faced the pressure of a star cornerback, he’d find a way to get open. The Raiders won’t hit any home run shots by feeding Renfrow, but Carr can get the ball out quickly and pick up guaranteed yardage. The other option is holding out for Henry Ruggs to beat Lattimore while Cameron Jordan charges through the line.
The Raiders have high hopes for Ruggs, but this is a tough matchup for the rookie. Renfrow is a safer target against a stacked defense.