Five Oakland Raiders to watch in Preseason Week 2

Aug 12, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oakland Raiders running back George Atkinson (34) runs for a 53 yard touchdown during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 12, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oakland Raiders running back George Atkinson (34) runs for a 53 yard touchdown during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Johnny Holton

Aug 12, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oakland Raiders wide receiver Johnny Holton (16) returns a kickoff during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 12, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oakland Raiders wide receiver Johnny Holton (16) returns a kickoff during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /

While the speedster did not actually record a reception against Arizona last week, he certainly made his point within the special teams unit. Holton recovered a fumble that eventually led to a Matt McGloin touchdown pass on the ensuing plays. It was a heady play that certainly made an impression on the entire team and coaching staff. He also recorded a 43-yard kick return, which highlighted the breakaway speed that he can bring to the table.

Holton has a hill to climb, but he can make his money by shining for the special teams unit day by day. And although he was credited with a drop last week, he could be viewed as a fill in receiver should something happen to the four-deep rotation that we are currently seeing.

Speed, coverage, return skills and a contribution in the passing game are facets of the game that Holton needs to show that he is capable of contributing to. His speed got him noticed when he was youngster playing pick up football; he just needs to show that that speed can transfer over to the NFL and allow him to produce.

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