One of the biggest question marks heading into the weekend for the Oakland Raiders is whether undrafted free agent receiver Keelan Doss will make the roster. With the top three receivers locked in (Antonio Brown, Tyrell Williams, Hunter Renfrow) and Dwyane Harris locked into the roster as well, there just aren’t many receiver spots up for grabs.
However, Doss has been impressive this preseason. In four preseason games, Doss caught 17 passes for 162 yards and one touchdown. He showed the ability to play on the outside as well as in the slot. While he has struggled with drops some, Doss’ ability to win when the ball is in the air and on the sideline makes him an intriguing option on the outside.
Doss’ production should speak for itself but with veterans Ryan Grant and J.J. Nelson on the roster, it’s not a given that Doss will make the final 53-man squad. Whether he makes the team or not depends on what they think of the two journeymen receivers. While Nelson has been solid, Grant has been just OK. No matter what, it’s going to be a difficult decision for the Raiders’ front office to make.
If Doss doesn’t make the initial 53-man roster, look for Oakland to try to stash him (and likely Marcel Ateman) on the practice squad. However, he will be subject to waivers and the other 31 teams in the NFL will have the opportunity to claim him.
It’s certainly going to be a stressful weekend for Doss and his fans. However, his stellar play and apparent love from head coach Jon Gruden should keep him on the initial roster.
