Once an afterthought under former Las Vegas Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels, Pro Bowl wideout Hunter Renfrow is happily coming around these days. It’s not a moment too soon, as Sunday’s game is huge for the squad’s trajectory from here on out this season.
Despite the loss last week against the Miami Dolphins, the Raiders are not finished; the playoffs are still a possibility (though a low one). Renfrow remained steadfast afterward; he, like many others, including Maxx Crosby, believes the recent defeat will serve to unite the front. After the game, Renfrow said, “I think this is going to bring us closer.” Luckily, No. 13 is looking like his old self again, finally.
Against the Giants and Jets, following McDaniels getting the boot, Renfrow saw just four targets. However, his 19-yard reception against the G-Men was a sign of things to come. Slowly but surely, Renfrow has been implemented more and more. Last week in the Miami contest, Renfrow hauled in all five of his intended targets, including that 31-yarder that made waves. Everyone’s taking notice, including interim head coach Antonio Pierce.
This is why you involve Hunter Renfrow.
Dude still has it. #Raiders pic.twitter.com/BvRbFnRrKq
— Logan Reever (@loganreever) November 19, 2023
Is Raiders WR Hunter Renfrow back?
While speaking with the Raiders’ own “J.T. The Brick,” coach Pierce elaborated a bit on Renfrow. More so, the coach spoke about how much his demeanor has changed.
“Crazy legs. We watched that other run the other day; you don’t know where he’s going or how he’s doing what he’s doing. He’s not very fast, but he’s efficient; it’s good to see him happy. It’s good to see him smile and love football again; that’s what I’m proud of and excited for him…”
An interesting tidbit that Pierce went on to note was with regard to Renfrow’s “morale.” As most Raiders fans are aware, Josh McDaniels severely underutilized the wide receiver. Though it’s worth mentioning that the arrival and subsequent play of Jakobi Meyers really helped to neutralize Renfrow’s usage, Pierce is happy, nonetheless.
“…Because you watched him for two years and just watched his morale. When he gets going, he uplifts everybody else; it’s the damndest thing. I’m excited we found a way to get him the ball because he is a special player.”
You’d be hard-pressed to find a Raiders fan who has an issue with Pierce’s sentiments.
It’s good to see Renfrow back.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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