Las Vegas Raiders second-year players must change the narrative in 2021

The Las Vegas Raiders held two first-round picks in the 2020 NFL Draft, landing a wide receiver in Henry Ruggs III, and a cornerback in Damon Arnette. Across the next six rounds, the Raiders seemed to bring in a class that could fill some voids, and make an impact as rookies, but none of that really happened.

Sure, Ruggs had a few good moments, and Bryan Edwards had a nice game to close out his rookie campaign, but for the most part, this class looked like a miss. Luckily for these six players, they will have more than a few opportunities to change the narrative in 2021, as salary cap issues will force the Raiders to be a bit frugal with their money.

Their seventh pick, a third-rounder named Lynn Bowden Jr., was traded during the summer, and he actually had one of the better rookie seasons than any of the players who remained on the Raiders roster.

Raiders need more from second-year players in 2021

With Nelson Agholor hitting free agency, and maybe too expensive to bring back, Ruggs is going to have to assume the WR1 spot this season. Agholor proved to be the deep threat that Ruggs was supposed to be in 2020, but now that he is comfortable in the organization, and does not have to navigate a strange offseason, he should be ready to roll in Year 2.

Edwards is another exciting wide receiver to keep an eye on, as he has the size and skill to be an elite player, especially in the red zone for Las Vegas. Staying on the offensive side of the ball, John Simpson will get a chance to improve in Year 2 as well, as Las Vegas has already cut both Gabe Jackson and Richie Incognito this offseason, their two starting offensive guards in Week 1 last season.

On defense, Tanner Muse missed his entire rookie season, but his rehab is going great, and many expect him to have an impact on defense, and special teams in 2021. Amik Robertson is another young defensive player who will get a chance to make an impact next season, as there is certain to be shuffling in the defensive backfield, with Lamarcus Joyner a cut candidate.

First-rounder Damon Arnette needs to stay healthy and focused if he is going to avoid the bust label, as he looked downright lost at times last season. That is going to happen to a rookie, but the Raiders need someone to team with Trayvon Mullen as starting corners, and if Arnette is not the answer, they could use an early selection on the position group once again in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Las Vegas is entering a crucial season for not only the organization but the tandem of Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock. This is a draft class that looks very underwhelming after one season, and if the franchise is finally going to get back to the playoffs, this group of six players needs to step up and change the narrative surrounding them this Fall.