Should the Raiders be concerned about how their players feel?
"“Obviously, we love Rich, and we think he did a great job. It almost feels like you’re losing a teammate. We cared a lot about him and are very thankful for him, but you can’t hold that against McDaniels. We’re excited and I don’t think there’s any turmoil.” – Hunter Renfrow weighing in on coach Bisaccia"
Speaking during this week’s Pro Bowl festivities, both Hunter Renfrow and Crosby made it clear they currently harbor no ill feelings or anything remotely close to that. They know that the NFL is a business first and foremost; people are fired, cut, and traded all the time; it’s just the nature of the beast.
While Bisaccia’s departure surely stings, these Raiders players know they have a great opportunity with Josh McDaniels.
McDaniels’ track record as one of the premier offensive coordinators in the league precedes him. Renfrow, for example, could end up having special years under his new coach. He’s drawing comparisons to Wes Welker, a two-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler who flourished under McDaniels.
Las Vegas Raiders who did not take advantage of opportunities in 2021
The Las Vegas Raiders had plenty of players step up this season, but this group really did not take advantage of their opportunities in 2021.
Bisaccia will remain a special and respected figure in the Raiders’ lore. Nothing will change that. Nevertheless, the locker room realizes that while they might not have much or any experience in dealing with McDaniels, the potential for something special is there. Crosby put it best when he said that while he “doesn’t know him much, I just want to win football games and that’s all that matters to me.” Spoken like a true Raider, Maxx.