The Las Vegas Raiders were dominated by the New England Patriots on Sunday, and it was their worst outing of the season, losing 45-17. The 17 points scored by the offense were a season low, as the Klint Kubiak-coached unit, uncharacteristically, struggled to score.
Notably, it was the offenses first game this year without wide receiver Jalen Nailor, as he missed the game with a concussion. While that may not seem like a big deal because of Nailor’s minute receiving production in the first four games, the wideout plays an important role for Las Vegas’ offense.
That’s why it’s great news that the Raiders could be getting the receiver back in time for the team’s Week 6 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Klint Kubiak provides promising injury update for Raiders receiver Jalen Nailor
On Monday, Las Vegas head coach Klint Kubiak shared that Nailor is expected to practice this week. The wide receiver is still in concussion protocol, but practicing is one of the final steps to clearing protocol. Barring any setbacks, Nailor should be back in the lineup for the Raiders in Week 6.
"I would expect Jalen [Nailor] to practice this week; see where he's at."Klint Kubiak
The wide receiver played in the first three games of the season, and just 19 snaps in the fourth game of the year, before sustaining the concussion that kept him out in Week 5. In his action, Nailor has been targeted 11 times, catching just five passes for 52 yards.
That output certainly leaves a lot to be desired, but Nailor has positively impacted the offense far beyond his personal production. His speed stresses defenses, often opening up the field for his teammates to get receptions if the ball isn’t thrown his way. Additionally, Nailor is a willing and effective run blocker, which is needed at the wide receiver spot to have a productive rushing attack.
Nailor joined the Raiders this offseason, signing a three-year deal worth $35.03 million, so fans would certainly love for him to be more than a blocker and clear out route specialist. Coming off a career year with the Minnesota Vikings last season, catching 29 passes for 444 yards and four touchdowns, Nailor is certainly capable of more.
The season is still young, though, so it’s great that he’s having a positive impact at all, while he still finds his role as a pass catcher. Hopefully, Jalen Nailor will be back on the field trying to figure things out in Week 6, as the Raiders try to knock off a good Buffalo Bills team.
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