Oakland Raiders 2014 Season Countdown: Offense

Dec 22, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders right end Mychal Rivera (81) is defended by San Diego Chargers cornerback Shareece Wright (29) on a 37-yard reception during the first half at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

TIGHT END

The Raiders drafted a couple rookies last year, Nick Kasa & Mychal Rivera, who appear to be the future for the Raiders at this position. Nick is the big blocker, who has decent hands. Mychal is the pass catching tight end type that is all the rage in the NFL right now. Both had some minimal contributions last year and they should have more prominent roles this season. The wildcard in this position group is David Ausberry. He is the athletic freak that can’t stay healthy. He missed all of last year and only caught 7 passes the year before. He might be another could of, would of guy when it’s all said and done. I think this is his last year to show he belongs to stay in the NFL.

The Raiders also have rookies Jake Murphy and Scott Simonson, along with 1st year player Brain Leonhardt on the roster. It might be possible one of them has a great camp and makes the active roster. I think the Raiders have a gem in Mychal Rivera. He needs to take as much pride in blocking as in pass catching for his career to really take off. I’m looking forward to seeing how his game has improved this season.