Raiders Hunter Renfrow poised to become a top NFL slot receiver
By CJ Errickson
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Hunter Renfrow put on a show this past Monday night versus Baltimore Ravens, proving to be an elite slot wideout.
This past Monday night, Las Vegas Raiders slot wide receiver Hunter Renfrow showed that he can make incredible plays. Not only was he making catches, but he was also exploiting Baltimore Ravens cornerback Tavon Young.
So while Derek Carr, Bryan Edwards, and Darren Waller receive most of the praise after Monday’s victory, Renfrow is equally as pivotal to the offense’s success moving forward. The guy just makes plays, and whenever a big play is needed, Carr has no problem turning to No. 13 to make it.
Raiders Renfrow to become elite slot wideout in 2021
While Hunter Renfrow may not be the fastest or the biggest player on the field, he shows relentless effort and attention to detail on every play. As the team’s starting slot receiver, this will allow him to be Derek Carr’s security blanket in various situations. Combining his mental acuity with his ability to create separation before and after the catch; makes for an outstanding wide receiver.
Since his days at Clemson, Renfrow has been a clutch performer, and while he appears unassuming, he is a menace on the football field. If I were a defensive coordinator, he would be one of the first Raiders I scheme for, and if he is on the field, you have to believe he has a great chance to make a play.
What to expect from the Raiders’ slot receiver moving forward?
The slot receiver position is just as important as the outside (X, Z) positions in today’s NFL. A variety of the NFL’s top receivers and defenders, such as Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey, have found their calling in the slot and nickel positions. While Hunter Renfrow may never be the offense’s focal point with Las Vegas Raiders’ tight end Darren Waller on the squad, he can still be an excellent second option.
With how the team’s rushing attack and the offensive line looked last week, the short passing game may become the Silver and Black’s bread and butter sooner rather than later. Expect him to have potentially over 100 receptions, many crucial late-game first downs, and, more importantly – touchdowns.