The Las Vegas Raiders’ tight end group figures to be a strength in 2020. Darren Waller had a breakout season in 2019 and Foster Moreau had a strong rookie campaign. Also, the Raiders added future Hall of Fame tight end Jason Witten in free agency.
Here are the previous entries:
This is how the depth chart might look come September:
Depth Chart
- Darren Waller
- Foster Moreau
- Jason Witten
- Derek Carrier
Practice Squad: Paul Butler
Breakdown
This bunch is one of the less interesting ones as far as position battles go. Waller is obviously the starter after emerging as one of the league’s top tight ends last season. Moreau is listed ahead of Witten because of his ability to play more snaps. Witten is at a point in his career where he is most effective when used sparingly. However, do not be surprised if he gets the nod over Moreau for two tight end sets in certain situations.
Related: Raider Nation indifferent towards TE Jason Witten’s signing
Given Jon Gruden’s penchant for three tight end sets, the Raiders will likely carry four tight ends on the roster. That fourth spot is the only one that is really up in the air, but it should go to Derek Carrier. He was solid last year as the third tight end, and the coaching staff will likely want someone they can trust to spell Witten.
If the Raiders do decide to keep a fifth tight end, it will likely come down to Paul Butler and undrafted free agent Nick Bowers out of Penn State. In order for either one to make the roster, they would have to stand out on special teams and at this point, it’s unlikely that happens with either one of them. Butler might get the nod on the practice squad over Bowers because the latter is more likely to get claimed by another team since he is a rookie. Veteran Nick O’Leary was also brought in during the offseason, but I think he is more of a camp body than a real threat to make the roster.
This takes us up to 16 out of 53 roster spots accounted for. Up next, we will take a look at the offensive line.
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Top Photo: Justin Casterline/Getty Images
