HBO’s “Hard Knocks” with the Oakland Raiders has come to a close with their fifth and final episode, which focused on the reality of roster cutdown day and how the team handles the process. So without further ado, here are the four biggest takeaways from the final episode:
WR Antonio Brown is still really, really good
Through the first four episodes of “Hard Knocks,” the storylines regarding Brown dealt with everything other than football. However, in the final episode of the show, Brown displayed why he is worth the trouble.
On the field, Brown is still one of the best wide receivers in the entire league. Take a look at one of his spectacular catches from last week’s practice:
Once the games start, no one will care or remember the drama around Brown this offseason. All they will remember is how dominant of a receiver the four-time All-Pro receiver still can be. Look for Brown to have a monster season.
The NFL is a meritocracy
Two of the best storylines throughout this season of “Hard Knocks” has been the play of undrafted free agent receiver Keelan Doss and linebacker Jason Cabinda. Despite likable personalities and solid preseason performances, neither made the 53-man roster.
Doss had a few drops in the final preseason game but led the Raiders in receptions and receiving yards during the preseason. That simply wasn’t enough for the former UC Davis receiver.
For the second consecutive year, Cabinda didn’t survive final cuts. He just wasn’t able to impress enough on special teams during the preseason to keep a roster spot. The NFL has shown us time and time again that it’s a business and the best players will play and make the roster. “Hard Knocks” reminded us of that reality once again.
QB Nathan Peterman isn’t going away
After a rough start to his career, Jon Gruden took a chance on the former Buffalo Bills quarterback. His faith has been rewarded as Peterman performed well in the preseason and appears to be ready to become a high-end backup in the league.
In the final preseason game, Peterman led a late touchdown drive despite battling through an elbow injury that ultimately landed him on injured reserve.
However, it’s clear that Gruden is a fan of Peterman’s and would like to see more from the former Pittsburgh passer in the future. Look for Peterman to be the team’s primary backup quarterback in 2020.
Gruden hasn’t lost any of his passion
If there is one thing that is abundantly clear from this season of “Hard Knocks,” it’s that Gruden hasn’t lost his passion or competitiveness for the game. From chasing down quarterbacks in scramble drills to cursing out officials, Gruden’s desire to win is at an all-time high.
As long as Gruden keeps that fire, the Raiders will be headed in the right direction. His team is going to play hard and will compete for all four quarters. Raiders fans should be encouraged abut Gruden after watching this season of “Hard Knocks.”
