Calling this year’s rookie class a “mixed bag” is putting it lightly. The Las Vegas Raiders and general manager John Spytek addressed some needs, but overall, there are some thoughts.
The way that the Silver and Black have handled their rookies is questionable. That’s especially true on offense with the likes of Ashton Jeanty and Jack Bech, for example. Coming into training camp, there was much hoopla and excitement over the team’s additions this year. Jeanty was hailed as a running back who would turn around a run game that nosedived the previous season. Bech, the TCU standout who overcame personal tragedy to rise to the status of a second-round pick in the NFL, was supposed to be a shiny new weapon.
Did Raiders fans expect too much from the rookies?
Well, as Week 11 nears for the Raiders, neither of those things came to fruition. Jeanty, in his defense, has definitely had some shining moments. Momentary glimpses into what could be something special if the Raiders ever build a respectable offensive line. As for Bech, his usage has been nonexistent under offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. For a team that had so many holes and needs, using their prized second-round selection on Bech has proven to be a disaster.
With that being said, it’s fair to say that Jeanty has been the most impactful and successful draft pick in Spytek’s first year, particularly when compared to Bech, whose contributions so far have been less significant. You could argue Jeanty has set the standard, while Bech represents the lower end of the draft pick spectrum.
In the grand scheme of things, the bar is relatively low as far as draft classes for the Raiders go. I mean, who can forget the unmitigated disasters that Raider Nation endured under Jon Gruden? By those standards, Tom Telesco’s lone class for Las Vegas was a slam dunk—headlined by a generational talent in Brock Bowers.
Unfortunately, across the entire NFL, Spytek’s picks have largely been underwhelming. Jeanty hasn’t revived anything, though there’s blame to go around for that. While on defense, you’ve had Darien Porter show some potential, but it’s not much better on that side of the ball.
With Bech, his impact has been less noticeable than anticipated, especially given the positive offseason feedback he received. The same observation applies to Don’t’e Thornton. The fourth-round pick has shown some speed, but his usage has only slightly exceeded Bech’s so far.
While expecting immediate results from second and fourth-round picks is challenging, it’s not unheard of. Still, if the Raiders’ offense continues to include a veteran like Tyler Lockett, perhaps it’s worth considering gradually transitioning these rookies into larger roles.
Related: Would The Raiders Really Move On From Daniel Carlson?
*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images