Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Early standouts in 2021 training camp

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 15: Cornerback Damon Arnette #20 of the Las Vegas Raiders warms up before a game against the Denver Broncos at Allegiant Stadium on November 15, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Broncos 37-12. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

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Henry Ruggs III, Las Vegas Raiders (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images) /

2. Henry Ruggs III, WR

Making legendary Raiders owner Al Davis proud, the speed of Henry Ruggs III was too enticing for the organization to pass up in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, making him the first wide receiver off the board in a loaded class at the position. But his rookie season absolutely paled in comparison to the likes of Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb and a few others.

Ruggs finished his rookie campaign playing in 13 games but only catching 26 of his 43 targets with only 452 yards and two touchdowns. His speed flashed at various times — as the Jets can surely attest to — but was inconsistent in his overall effectiveness as a pass-catcher but also in other facets of the game.

He earns recognition as a standout from training camp (and the offseason) because Ruggs clearly took notice of his shortcomings and has addressed them. The former Alabama speedster has put on 13 pounds this offseason to try and handle the physicality of the league, both as a route-runner and run-blocker, better.

So far in camp, that has shown up and, though he may not be as fast, it hasn’t completely taken his speed from him. Having Ruggs be a more versatile player for this offense can only make him better and more valuable moving forward.

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