Reasons for optimism despite Las Vegas Raiders loss in the opener
Darren Waller’s health is returning
The Darren Waller saga this offseason was one of the most draining stories this year. It seemed like every week there was a new twist or a new angle by the media, for example, when he was being called selfish. However, one aspect of that entire story that people are overlooking is that Waller was dealing with an injury during that time. In particular, a hamstring issue that nagged him all off-season caused him to miss most of camp.
On Sunday, against the Chargers, Waller showed he’s getting back to his old self right out of the gate. He arguably had the most beautiful throw from Carr on the day, a lob that Waller caught down the middle with two Chargers defenders shadowing him, which, by the way, was nearly a touchdown.
Wasn't Derek Carr's best game, but this lob to Darren Waller might have been Sunday's prettiest throw. pic.twitter.com/SYweAP7HAT
— Bill Barnwell (@billbarnwell) September 12, 2022
Again, touching on the subject of Adams, Carr needs to spread the ball around more. The fact is, when Waller had it, good things happened. After Adams, Waller was second on the team with four receptions and 79 yards. His longest reception of the day was that 31-yard catch.
Raiders: Known issues creep up in loss to the Chargers
The Las Vegas Raiders lost a tough one on the road in Week 1, as known issues reared their ugly heads throughout the 24-19 loss.
More notable was Waller’s average yardage per reception (19.8). That’s nearly 20 yards. Now credit the Chargers’ secondary for a solid job, but Waller is still clearly an explosive, big play waiting to happen. Look for McDaniels to go his way more against the Arizona Cardinals.