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The Oakland Raiders didn't make the playoffs in 2019, but improved greatly and there has to be some great optimism going forward for this squad. They are making the move to Las Vegas and it really looks like they can make the playoffs in 2020.
Let's break down four reasons for optimism.
4. Draft capital and cap space
The Raiders have stockpiled draft picks the last few years and that is finally paying off. They have five draft picks in the first 90 of the 2020 NFL Draft and they should be able to find some real star power. They also are sitting around $75 million under the cap, which means they should be able to fill in some of their key areas of need.
3. Pushing the right buttons on the offensive line
Trent Brown is locked up long-term and he doesn't let anyone through on the right side of the offensive line. The Raiders also seem to have revitalized the career of Richie Incognito, who didn't seem to have a spot anymore in the league. They are two physical offensive linemen who have brought a different type of attitude to the Raiders.
2. Maxx Crosby – Great drafting
The Raiders have all those draft picks, but it doesn't matter if a team is poor at drafting. That isn't the case with the Raiders. Maxx Crosby was drafted in the fourth round by the Raiders and quickly has proven to be a difference-maker. He is in the discussion for Defensive Rookie of the Year, and should only get better in his second year.
The Raiders' front office has proven they are good at drafting, and they should be able to hit on at least a few picks that can be instant impact players. If they can continue to draft the way they did last year, they can be a Super Bowl contender in no time.
1. Josh Jacobs
Josh Jacobs looks like the real deal and it won't be long until he is considered one of the best running backs in the league. Even though Jacobs dealt with injuries, he finished the season rushing for 1,150 yards and seven touchdowns. He also caught 20 passes for 186 yards.
There are questions surrounding the quarterback, but Jacobs is a guy they can lean on. Maybe just maybe he can be the guy to help lead the Raiders back to the promised land. The injuries can be a bit of concern but hopefully, it was more of a fluke and not something that is going to be a problem every year.
