Raiders: Is Hunter Renfrow the next Raider to have a payday?
Should the Raiders be all-in on Renfrow?
With Derek Carr’s desire for Renfrow to be up next, as well as a little background information on the 5’10 receiver now out of the way, it’s time to ask the question all of this led up to: Should the Raiders be all in on Hunter Renfrow?
Absolutely.
Since Renfrow’s first game as a Raider, he and Carr began to establish a special connection. As his rookie year went on, it seemed like we all knew where the ball was going on the most crucial third-downs, including defenses. – Yet, no one could stop it.
This special connection has allowed Renfrow to produce at least 30 first-downs each year, going as high as 51 last season.
What’s the secret that makes Renfrow so dependable in Carr’s eyes? It isn’t a freaky athleticism or a wide frame that allows him to overpower defenders; It’s his incredible football IQ.
Renfrew lands in the category of the Jordy Nelson’s and Julian Edelman’s of the world, who aren’t going to overpower or fly past defenders. Instead, they all have a great understanding of situations and move very well without the ball, both by way of routes and finding space in a pinch when the quarterback is running out of time.
Combine that with reliable hands in tight situations, and there you have it – A QBs safety net.
Renfrow’s consistent upward trajectory and improvement each season is another reason the 2021 Pro Bowler deserves to be the next man up.
Although Renfrow isn’t the most versatile player in the world, he continues to master the crafts he excels with and has seemingly come close to perfecting some. Nothing is more impressive than his work underneath, especially when he’s getting space against a defender in a shallow part of the field. The Raiders may have struggled in the Red Zone last year, but some of Renfrow’s best work was there.
The skillset Renfrow brings to the table is a valuable one, and by no means should be taken for granted.
When we put everything together, from the trust and chemistry between Carr and Renfrow to the consistent development of the Clemson alum, and ending with how Renfrow’s skill set is incredibly valuable, there’s no real reason to think general manager Dave Ziegler won’t at least entertain the idea of an extension.
Some may hold Davante Adams now being on the roster against Renfrow, but truthfully, there’s no correlation between the two despite both being receivers; They are completely different players, and their presences will help each other vastly. While Adams feasts on the outside, Renfrow will dominate inside, and the deep presence of Adams only helps Renfrow underneath – And vice versa.