Oakland Raiders 2019 rookie class is ready to make an impact
Offense
When you select a running back in the first round, chances are that you expect the young player to be a starter from day one, and vital contributor at least. The retirement of Marshawn Lynch opened an opportunity for a new feature back. Despite bringing back the likes of Jalen Richard, Doug Martin, and Deandre Washington, its clear Jon Gruden was still in search for a true three-down running back.
With the 24th pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Oakland Raiders believe they found that three-down back in Josh Jacobs. At 21 years old with a knack for running hard, Jacobs will also be ready to contribute in the passing game. The game has evolved to value a running back that can do both.
Yet perhaps a real insight into how capable this rookie class can be, look no further than Hunter Renfrow. The championship hero out of Clemson, taken in the fifth round, has held his own in camp and just might prove himself to be a key part of this receiving corps. Renfrow has been matched up against Joyner in camp and has confidently held his own.
Stating the obvious here but Hunter Renfrow just has an uncanny ability to get open. Going against Lamarcus Joyner in practice hasn’t slowed him down at all.
— Josh Schrock (@Schrock_And_Awe) July 28, 2019
If anything, he’s proven that he’s very well in play for the slot receiver role and just might yet hold onto that position, making it his to lose.