The Las Vegas Raiders are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL. Whether they play in Sin City, Oakland, and other places in between, a rich history surrounds the team. Hence, it isn’t surprising to know many players want to wear the Silver and Black, and veteran tight end Jason Witten is the latest in line.
Does it make sense for the Raiders to employ Jason Witten?
The Raiders had a productive tight end group in 2019. Darren Waller broke out and posted a career-high 90 catches for 1,145 yards and three touchdowns. On the other hand, rookie Foster Moreau scored five touchdowns. The Silver and Black got solid production from the unit and the only question mark that came heading into the 2020 season was the knee injury the LSU product sustained in 2019.
Knowing Moreau’s availability would be in question, the Raiders signed Witten. Despite the fact the sophomore tight end has practiced without limitations, Witten will still play a key role in the team.
Although Witten isn’t the All-Pro player he once was, he still had a productive 2019 season. His 63 receptions would have ranked second in the Raiders after Waller. Moreover, the veteran has played long enough to have mastered the position.
Regardless of how many catches Witten finishes with, he has a strong influence on the team and franchise he’s humbled to be a part of.
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Jason Witten sees Las Vegas as a good fit
On the team’s official website, Witten talked about his reasons for signing with the Raiders. Among them were the franchise’s history and the young talent they possess. Moreover, he complimented the coaching staff and how driven the players are.
I picked the Raiders because they’re a historic franchise,” Witten said. “I felt like this was a young team that’s hungry, good guys. Coach Gruden and his staff — I believe 100 percent in them. It’s a good fit for me and where I’m at in my career. So, I’m excited to join this team and all the young talent.
Witten’s comments show how highly he thinks of Raiders head coach Jon Gruden. Besides trusting him and the staff, he pointed out how hungry the team is. That hunger is instilled by the coach and trickles down from the top to the players. Directly and indirectly, the veteran tight end is letting everyone know how he feels about joining the Raiders.
It isn’t as if Witten has to prove anything either. He has already played 16 seasons in the NFL, and his excitement could have waned, but it hasn’t.
This is a new opportunity,” Witten said. “This franchise has a great history and I think it’s a hungry team with an exciting future. I’m just honored and humbled to be a part of it.
There are players on the Raiders roster who are younger and faster at this point in their careers than Witten. Nevertheless, the veteran tight end is excited and ready to contribute on a young team.
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Top Photo: Ashley Landis/The Dallas Morning News