Whether Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Henry Ruggs III can take it to the next level is on everyone’s minds. Derek Carr’s brother, former NFL quarterback David Carr, seems to believe the former Alabama wideout needs to do so this season.
The Silver and Black had their choice at the cream of the crop when it came to wide receivers at last year’s NFL draft. When the Raiders chose at number 12, all of the top receiving prospects were on the board. The team’s brass opted for the fastest one of the bunch in Ruggs. In his rookie year, we all saw how much of a difference Ruggs’ speed made during games. He was able to stretch the field and had moments where we were reminded why ‘speed kills.’
The time is now for Henry Ruggs III, says @DCarr8â€¼ï¸ pic.twitter.com/hXarWTanT5
— NFL Total Access (@NFLTotalAccess) May 28, 2021
Unfortunately, speed alone won’t be enough to warrant a selection within the top 15 of the draft. Statistically speaking, Ruggs was modest at best, accumulating 452 receiving yards off of 26 receptions. Though he only hauled in two touchdowns, Ruggs showed what he could do downfield, averaging 17.2 yards a reception. David, quoting his brother Derek, stated that ‘4’ loves Ruggs but admits the receiver has yet to successfully transition into the NFL.
“In practice, he’s the best player I’ve ever played with.”
The former number one overall pick from 2002 went as far as to say that Derek believes Ruggs is the best player he’s played with, in practice. It certainly bodes well for Ruggs that his quarterback thinks highly of him. The question now becomes whether Carr and head coach Jon Gruden can get ’11’ the ball enough this season, 43 targets won’t be enough.
[pickup_prop id=”7545″]
You May Also Like: 2021 Las Vegas Raiders Draft Class Pro Comparisons
*Top Photo: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports