The Raiders are loaded with offensive weapons. They have two All-Pro selections and a former Pro Bowl slot receiver in their arsenal. They’ve also managed to add the top receiver in the free-agent market this offseason.
So where does their skill group rank among the top players in the NFL? Pretty, pretty high.
In a recent article by Bill Barnwell of ESPN, he ranked all 32 teams by their skill players heading into the 2023 season. Not surprisingly, the Raiders came in high on the list, ranking at No. 11.
The second option in the offense, rather unexpectedly, turned out to be Josh Jacobs. After having his fifth-year option declined and working with backups in the Hall of Fame game, he delivered what was comprehensively his best season.
Five of his nine longest runs as a Raiders player came last season, including the 86-yard walk-off in overtime to beat the Seahawks. Jacobs actually posted 1 more rushing yard over expectation as a rookie, but he more than made up for the difference by his increased role in the passing game.
Outside of their Pro Bowl talent, the Raiders have other intriguing options on offense. Third-round pick Tre Tucker is expected to contribute this season as he adds an added element of speed to the offense that they just didn’t have last year. Plus, rookie tight end Michael Mayer should give them some stability in the middle of the field.
The Raiders have surrounded Jimmy Garoppolo with a ton of weapons and a pretty solid offensive line. As long as he can stay healthy, the offense is set up pretty well to have success in 2023.
