Las Vegas Raiders X-Factors against the Texans in 2022 Week 7

Las Vegas Raiders X-Factors against the Texans in 2022 Week 7

How do the Raiders fill the absence of Waller?

Las Vegas will have to overcome the absence of one of their best weapons in offense, as the expectation is that Darren Waller will miss Sunday’s game against the Texans. The Raiders’ star tight end was limited to just eight snaps in the 30-29 loss to the Chiefs in Week 5 after suffering a hamstring injury, and it appears that even with the subsequent bye week Waller has not yet healed enough to return to action.

Granted, Waller has been relatively quiet so far this season as he’s totaled just 16 catches for 175 yards and a lone touchdown through five games. He battled through a hamstring injury in the preseason and it looks like the injury will once again keep him sidelined indefinitely. All that being said, he still commands the attention of the defense by just being on the field.

Without Waller lining up on Sunday, it could make it that much easier for Houston’s secondary to key in on Davante Adams outside, or even opt to stack the box against Josh Jacobs on the ground. Foster Moreau, who has missed back-to-back games with a knee injury, managed to log a limited practice session on Wednesday, but his playing status likely depends on participating in at least a full session this week.

Whether it be Moreau or Mack Hollins on the outside, another wideout must step into the role as the next man up.