With the 2021 offseason already here for the Las Vegas Raiders, the team’s brain trust will need to decide which players warrant another contract. Despite finishing a dispiriting 8-8, the Raiders did have some promising players that happen to now be unrestricted free agents.
Chief among them would be wide receiver Nelson Agholor, who turned around his career in Las Vegas. Agholor returning isn’t guaranteed by any means, and his ascension could also spell bad news for Tyrell Williams, as the oft-injured wide receiver might in all likelihood be done as a Raider.
Some players should have no business wearing a Raiders uniform in 2021. Erik Harris provided depth and had some quality spot starts, but he should not figure into the team’s long-term plans. He alone gave up 418 passing yards in coverage per Pro Football Reference, not good at all.
Yes, he’s a ‘character guy, and a leader, but the team needs speed and reliable coverage in the backfield. Johnathan Abram is enough of a liability, no need for another one moving forward.
Jason Witten, another puzzling addition last year, clearly didn’t help the team. If anything, he took valuable snaps and playing time away from Foster Moreau. No one can deny that Witten’s a leader and has been a positive influence, but your on-field contributions are what really counts.
The tight end room next year should be Darren Waller, Moreau, and possibly a rookie.
With all that being said, other than Agholor, these three players should have priority status with Raiders brass.