Upon reflection and extensive film study, several conclusions can be made. When it comes to the Las Vegas Raiders, potential offensive talent abounds. The key will be harnessing that potential and shaping it into a consistent force that helps the offense score points in bunches. With that said, of all of the newly arriving weapons, no player should capture the intrigue more than Bryan Edwards.
No Pressure
Edwards rolled into Las Vegas as the eighty-first overall selection. More importantly, he walks into a crowded position group with other new Raiders. On top of that, all of the focus will sit on the shoulders of Henry Ruggs. Under those circumstances, he can learn the offense, sharpen routes, and climb the depth chart. Without pressure, Edwards learns on the job, free of press questions, and analyst scrutiny. As of right now, the guess is that Edwards hovers around the fourth receiver spot in the rotation. If he does see field time, look for him to battle fourth corners or nickel personnel.
Attitude
Bryan Edwards runs as he looks. While nimble for his size, he won’t dance away from contact. When some receivers suffer alligator arms and make business decisions. Edwards, after the catch, spots the defender. Unlike some wideouts, Edwards thrives on contact. The Raiders haven’t had a receiver with attitude since Michael Crabtree left the team. Even then, Crabtree did not possess that mean streak when finishing runs. If you’re honest, the wideouts needed a shot of aggression.
Chemistry
Derek Carr, for all of his traits, positive and negative alike, regards trust more important than anything else. If you drop a pass or lacks a crisp route, and you aren’t the top two wideouts, the ball may not find you for a while. That’s no shade. Edwards gives Carr a big target that will make the contested catch, with a corner draped all over him. That type of freedom will help build a bond between receiver and quarterback.
Outlook
Bryan Edwards gives the Las Vegas Raiders a potential number-one wideout with a third-round draft pick. The important part remains staying dedicated to his craft. Too many times, young wideouts will hear praises and forget what it took to get on the field. Edgar Bennett will push him. Also, you can guarantee that Edwards will hear Jon Gruden. Drafting Ruggs will give the team an eventual lead wideout. In Edwards, the Silver and Black could feature a strong second wideout.
