Every season, there are a handful of players that go on to surpass the expectations set for them in training camp. A perfect example from the 2019 season was Darren Waller emerging into one of the league’s best tight ends. Another is Maxx Crosby, who significantly out-performed No. 4 overall pick, Clelin Ferrell.
Today, we are looking at three Raiders who could make a leap this season. So without further ado, let’s get to the breakout candidates:
WR Hunter Renfrow
Despite being a fifth-round pick, Hunter Renfrow emerged as the Raiders’ best and most efficient receiver in 2019. In his final seven games of his rookie season, the former Clemson receiver caught 35 passes for 490 yards and four touchdowns.
While it’s going to be difficult for Renfrow to repeat that type of efficiency, it wouldn’t be a shock if his volume rose dramatically despite some of the additions the Raiders made to their offense this offseason. Bringing in a player like Henry Ruggs III should only help Renfrow underneath and with Derek Carr’s willingness to get rid of the ball quickly, he could become the team’s top passing option behind Waller.
It’s not hard to envision Renfrow catching 4-5 passes a game, especially if the Raiders get into negative game scripts. It’s not out of the realm of possibilities for Renfrow to catch 70 or more passes this season as the team’s top receiver.
DT Maurice Hurst
After a fantastic rookie season, defensive tackle Maurice Hurst took a step in the wrong direction last year. While he was able to turn it on some late, the Raiders need the former Michigan star to become a more consistent pass rusher.
With new defensive line coach Rod Marinelli, that will likely happen as he is widely known as one of the best “teachers” in the NFL. For years, Marinelli has gotten outstanding production out of interior rushers with far less talent than Hurst.
Hurst’s biggest challenge will be finding snaps as the team brought in Maliek Collins this offseason to compete with Hurst. But if Hurst can make his way into the starting lineup, he should be a perfect fit with the way Marinelli coaches.
It wouldn’t be surprising if Hurst had a career-year in 2020 as he could easily eclipse six sacks. In a critical Year 3, expect Hurst to become a big part of the Raiders’ defensive line this season.
CB Amik Robertson
Defensive backs usually don’t have much success during their rookie seasons. It often takes them a year or two to get used to the speed of the NFL. That is especially true for Day 3 picks as they are usually only contributing on special teams, if at all. However, Amik Robertson isn’t your typical Day 3 defensive backs.
Robertson was one of the most productive defensive backs in the nation over the past three seasons, tallying 14 interceptions. While he is small in stature, he plays big and has shown the ability to play against bigger receivers. According to Pro Football Focus, he graded out as the nation’s top cornerback in several metrics, including single coverage and in contested catch situations
If Lamarcus Joyner struggles in the slot and/or is moved back to free safety, that could open up snaps right away for Robertson. And if he is on the field, you know that he will find a way to make plays.
Don’t be surprised if Robertson becomes one of the team’s best defensive backs by the end of the 2020 NFL season.
