Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each offensive position in 2021

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 03: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on January 03, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 03: Quarterback Derek Carr #4 of the Las Vegas Raiders throws against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter at Empower Field At Mile High on January 03, 2021 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – DECEMBER 06: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Henry Ruggs III #11 of the Las Vegas Raiders hauls in a fourth-quarter touchdown against Josh Adams #36 of the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on December 06, 2020, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Raiders defeated the Jets 31-28. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each offensive position in 2021

Wide Receiver: Can Henry Ruggs and Bryan Edwards get the job done?

Ruggs and Edwards have a big challenge ahead of them in 2021, as both receivers are expected to be the top two options at wide receiver. Whether or not they can live up to the task will depend on their offseason and training camp and if they can stay healthy.

Let’s start with Ruggs. He was the first wide receiver taken in the 2020 draft, and expectations were high for him in his first season. Unfortunately, he didn’t really live up to these expectations, as he struggles to stay healthy and run routes effectively.

This offseason, it appears as though Ruggs added more size and strength, which should help him stay healthy. He’s also been working with Carr and the other receivers to improve his route running, which hopefully sets him up for a better 2021.

As for Edwards, it’s all about his health. He missed a ton of time in 2020 due to injuries and COVID-19. He, like Ruggs, added more muscle this offseason, and this should help him in 50/50 catches, which is where he really tends to shine. Also, his success will likely be determined by how he performs in the red zone, which is where his skill set can be utilized the most effectively.

Answer: If these guys worked on their health and play this offseason, then few things can stop them from succeeding in 2021.