The Oakland Raiders grabbed a crucial 24-17 win on Sunday afternoon against the New York Giants that has thrust them into a three-way tie atop of the AFC West.
Raiders were able to accomplish that despite not having the services of their top two wide receivers in Michael Crabtree and Amari Cooper available for the contest. The offense will be a step closer to returning to full strength with Crabtree returning to the field after his one-game suspension has been served.
Meanwhile, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network is reporting that Cooper could be back, but his ankle injury is now raising more of a concern than the concussion.
The #Raiders improved to 6-6 without Michael Crabtree and Amari Cooper. Tied for the division lead, they get Crabtree back vs. #Chiefs and may get Cooper back, too. He's described as hopeful for Sunday, with the ankle being the issue rather than the concussion.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 4, 2017
Cooper has been working his way back from a concussion that he suffered against the Denver Broncos after taking a hit to the head while ducking into safety Darian Stewart's hip/shoulder. He also suffered the ankle injury during that same play.
This will mark the second week that Cooper has had to recover from both respective injuries. Although the Raiders are in the midst of a playoff push, the team will likely err on the side of caution with this situation.
The return of Crabtree should provide them with less internal push to get Cooper back in the field sooner than what may be necessary for his recovery.
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