There is a saying that the greatness of the Raiders is in its future. Tomorrow, that future reports to training camp as the Raiders rookie class is set to arrive on July 20.
For the Raiders to enjoy any semblance of a successful season in 2023, this rookie class is going to have to contribute immediately.
Here are the three rookies that I’m most excited heading into training camp:
Tyree Wilson must be a beast. He’s a massive human with an incredible frame. The foot injury needs to be behind him so that he can hit the ground running. A pass rush trio of Maxx Crosby, Chandler Jones and Wilson will be a problem for opposing Quarterbacks.
Michael Mayer needs to seize the starting Tight End job. Austin Hooper and OJ Howard are solid veterans who can be serviceable, but Mayer possesses the tools to be an elite Tight End. He’s another massive human who’s been often compared to Jason Witten. If he can achieve anything close to the career of Witten, the Raiders will be in great shape for a long time.
Jakorian Bennett is an interesting player. Not often would you have super high expectations for a 4th round cornerback. However, Bennett boasts 4.3 speed and a knack for getting his hands on the ball that make him an intriguing option in the defensive backfield. It’s Bennett’s 29 PD’s over the past two seasons that has me excited. The Raiders need a disrupting playmaker in the secondary and Bennett has the best opportunity to be that guy.