Obviously, the Las Vegas Raiders have Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers, but who else can be a threat?
Tre Tucker was drafted in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. This pick was the compensation from the New York Giants in the Darren Waller trade. Although Waller is no longer playing professionally, many may still wonder if Las Vegas won the trade.
Tucker’s lightning-fast speed makes him an ideal field stretcher. This is vital in every offense to create extra dimensions. However, the deep threat needs to be talented enough to threaten the defense. It is important to realize that the Raiders were one of the worst offenses in the league. It needs to be a priority for Pete Carroll to improve the offense, especially in the passing game.
Tre Tucker Struggles With Subpar Quarterback Play
Since joining the pros, the former Bearcat has caught passes from Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew. Both of these pass throwers do not excel with deep balls. No. 11 also has a small frame, only being 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds.
He and O’Connell had chemistry as two of the youngest players on the roster. Tucker finished last season with 539 receiving yards and three touchdowns. With many injuries throughout the roster, No. 11 became the sole deep threat. He ran the fifth most routes of any wide receiver in 2024 but was not ranked in the top 50 for receptions. Additionally, Tucker finished 2024 with an underwhelming 57.5 Pro Football Focus grade.
The main issue is that, besides the speed, there are not many outstanding attributes. Since the Cincinnati alum is undersized, there is no potential for high-pointing passes. In reality, intermediate routes from Tucker do not have great separation either. Breaking tackles is also not a strong suit for the undersized receiver. He is most effective on routes deeper than 30 yards downfield. On the bright side, the Raiders’ new quarterback, Geno Smith, could help unlock his full potential.
Deep Threats Still Available For The Raiders
Although wide receiver is a position of need, this Raiders regime still has yet to address the problem. Besides Meyers and Tucker, the best receiver on the roster is Kristian Wilkerson. The offseason has been official for a week and many threats are still available.
Tyler Lockett is a common name that will continue to raise rumors. His connections with the coaching staff and Smith are undeniable. On top of that, Lockett is a field stretcher with outstanding deep-catching ability.
Rondale Moore and Elijah Moore are two other excellent options. Both players have a low price tag and can add talent to the Raiders’ offense. Even if the team signs a free agent, a young receiver in the draft could aid this position group tremendously.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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