Rising Star
The Raiders have a bunch of players on this year’s roster that are really starting to make a name for themselves in the NFL. They also have some young guys, even rookies, who should see their star rise to new heights during the 2018 NFL campaign.
Here is a look at a few names who we feel could be rising stars in the NFL this season.
Jose Sanchez: Arden Key
There is no rookie who is a projected backup with a better opportunity than pass rusher Arden Key. Key is sitting behind arguably the best pass rushing duo in the league, so offenses won’t stress on his presence. He has all the makings of a star and can show it this upcoming season. Key has had a strong offseason with coaches and media members raving about him. He’s just the player that is right to give the must needed assistance for Khalil Mack.
Thomas Wheaton: Arden Key
Arden Key in the third round is looking like more and more of a steal as time goes on. Key will benefit enormously from the tutelage of Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin and will make a splash in his rookie season. Keep an eye on him, he will soon ascend the ranks of edge rushers in the NFL.
Jordan Alexis: Karl Joseph
With Paul Guenther now running the defense, I expect Joseph to be placed in a better position to succeed. And we will see a lot more of the splash plays he was known for when he was at West Virginia.
Brad Weiss: Rashaan Melvin
Melvin burst onto the scene last season in Indianapolis, showing he can shut anybody down, as evident by him taking Antonio Brown out of most of the game when the Colts played the Pittsburgh Steelers. With Gareon Conley a question mark, Melvin could end up being the top corner on this roster in 2018.