The Las Vegas Raiders are entering the voluntary portion of OTAs on Monday, which means the season is one step closer. However, even though the first games are still months away, OTAs will give an opportunity for some developments on multiple story fronts.
Here’s a look at five storylines to keep up with heading into OTAs in no particular order, touching on players on both sides of the ball and the coach.
5 Las Vegas Raiders Storylines to Know
#1 – Fernando Mendoza’s First Full-Team Camp
According to Raiders media, this will be the first time that Fernando Mendoza will be working with the entire team. The Raiders already held camps for the veterans and rookies separately, but this will be the first time that most of the roster will be on the same field. This will be the first hint of how well Mendoza mixes in with the veterans from the receivers to the running backs.
#2 – Klint Kubiak’s First Full-Team Test
Some coordinators can run a tight camp in their small portion of the big picture, but can Klint Kubiak manage an entire operation? This will be the first chance to see whether chaos or order will take place. If players are wandering on the field and are uncertain of where to go or what to do, it will set a dark early tone for the team.
#3 – Introduction to Ashton Jeanty and Mike Washington Jr.’s remade backfield
Many expected Ashton Jeanty to get one more season as the team’s bellcow back. John Spytek had different ideas, spending a pick to get Mike Washington Jr. Will his presence elevate Jeanty to a new level and will the two backs get along, or could the seeds of problems be sewn this week?
#4 – Will Maxx Crosby Demonstrate Being All-in?
The team is starting the voluntary portion of the program, which means that players will have a clear opportunity to show their colors.
Maxx Crosby, who was all but offloaded earlier this year before his trade with the Baltimore Ravens fell through, now has the chance to show whether he’s fully committed or if he is just going to go through the motions or mysteriously disappear on some days. The true impact of the failed trade begins now.
#5 – First Look at Kirk Cousins and Fernando Mendoza’s On-Field Dynamic
It’s clear that Kirk Cousins was brought in to be the mentor, while Fernando Mendoza was brought in to be the apprentice. However, while Cousins has been on board to this point, the rubber is starting to meet the road, which will reveal just how willing Cousins is to train his eventual replacement. OTAs will be the first practical test of the dynamic.
Read More News:
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