The Las Vegas Raiders lost five of their last five games last year. However, there were some bright spots and two of their players made Pro Football Focus’ Top 101 players of the 2020 season list.
The Silver and Black has a couple of playmakers on offense
Even though the Raiders couldn’t keep up with opposing teams at times, their offense scored the tenth most points in 2020. Thus, it’s not surprising to see quarterback Derek Carr and tight end Darren Waller make PFF’s list. The advanced statistics site highlights Carr’s ability to throw deep passes.
Meanwhile, Waller earned praise for his receiving prowess. PFF says that Travis Kelce was the better tight end but ’88’ was ‘incredibly good in his own right’. They point out that he actually had more targets and catches than his Kansas City Chiefs counterpart.
On the other hand, no Raiders’ defensive players made the list, and rightfully so. The unit ranked near the cellar of most meaningful categories and played a big factor in the team’s collapse in the second half of the season.
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Could other Raiders make the list in 2021?
Things can change in the NFL from one season to another, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see a few more Raiders next year. You could argue Rodney Hudson, who is one of the best centers in the league, should’ve made the list. Defensive end Maxx Crosby had a sophomore slump after having a solid rookie in 2019. He could get back on track next season and become his old dominant self.
On the other hand, Carr may or may not get traded this offseason. However, he should continue his solid play in 2021. Waller also has been among the top tight ends in the last two seasons and it’s unlikely that will change any time soon. Both of them should have no trouble making PFF’s ranking again.
The Raiders haven’t had a winning season since 2016 but Carr and Waller aren’t the reason why. They were two of their few bright spots last season and they should play at a high level in this upcoming season.
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Top Photo: Rick Scuteri/Associated Press
