The Las Vegas Raiders might need some reinforcements at wide receiver this offseason, and veteran A.J. Green could be of some use.
Restructuring the Raiders roster will be the highest priority this offseason besides the NFL draft. Securing as much defensive talent in April would be the smart route for the Raiders’ brain trust, but there’s another issue. Wide receiver Nelson Agholor may walk in free agency. However, veteran and soon to be free agent, A.J. Green might be able to help.
It’s crazy to think that a seven-time Pro Bowler could be on the outs with the team that drafted him. Nevertheless, Green will hit the open market unless he’s willing to take a smaller deal. The Bengals placed the franchise tag on him last offseason worth nearly $18.1 million. It’s uncertain what Cincinnati has planned for their roster this offseason, but judging from his 2020 numbers, Green shouldn’t be commanding anywhere near that type of money.
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What can Green do for the Raiders?
Assuming the Bengals say goodbye to one of the greatest players in their history, Green could still be a solid addition, if healthy. His numbers have seen a decline these past few seasons but last year, they fell off the cliff. In 14 regular-season games, Green hauled in 47 receptions for 523 yards and score just two touchdowns. His impact per catch has also seen a sharp decline, averaging 11.1 yards per reception, which isn’t bad nor great.
AJ Green snatched that out of the air 🙌 @ajgreen_18 @Bengals #DALvsCIN on FOX pic.twitter.com/deAPvBG1iJ
— The Checkdown (@thecheckdown) December 13, 2020
Green’s still a reliable receiver, with only eight drops since 2018, though he missed all of 2019. If he’s healthy, he could still fill the void left by Agholor gets signed elsewhere. Someone who was one of the top NFL receivers prior to 2018 could turn it around in Gruden’s offense.
Henry Ruggs III will command most of the attention defensively and Darren Waller has to be accounted for on all plays. Meanwhile, Green could excel as the number two receiving option behind Waller. If the money’s right on say a one-year contract worth around $3 million, it could be worth it.
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*Top Photo: Andy Lyons/Getty Images