While the top of the Las Vegas Raiders’ receiving corps is set, one prominent role is still murky. After last Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings, the picture got a little clearer. Let’s see where the candidates stand ahead of Saturday’s matchup with the Miami Dolphins as Raiders preseason continues.
Demarcus Robinson has been eliminated
The Raiders cut Demarcus Robinson on Tuesday as they trimmed the roster down to 85. It should be noted that Robinson did not have a poor performance against the Vikings. He was targeted three times and had two catches for 28 yards, including a 23-yard reception. However, it clearly wasn’t enough. The Raiders had several other veteran receivers whom they felt were better fits and offered more upside.
Frontrunners emerge in Mack Hollins and Keelan Cole
The pair looked solid against Minnesota, but they did not do anything spectacular. Hollins was targeted once and had a 15-yard catch. Cole caught four of his five targets for 26 yards, including a 20-yard reception. So, why have these two emerged as the favorites? At six-foot-four and 220 pounds, Hollins is the type of big receiver that Derek Carr has had a lot of success with in the past. Cole, on the other hand, has had several years of being a productive secondary receiver in the NFL. It will be interesting to see what the Raiders end up valuing more.
Raiders Preseason: Other contenders?
Another name to keep an eye on is undrafted free agent DJ Turner. He had a great game on Sunday, catching three of his four targets for 58 yards, including a 34-yard touchdown. He still has work to do to make the team, but he is one to watch. Finally, don’t count out Tyron Johnson. He was on the team last year primarily as a kick returner, and that could secure him a roster spot this year as well. However, he still needs to prove himself more as a receiver. Johnson was targeted twice on Sunday and hauled in one for seven yards.
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*Top Photo: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images