One of the many additions that the Oakland Raiders made this NFL offseason was former Pro Bowl wide receiver, Jordy Nelson
Since his arrival, Nelson has continued to make a strong impression on his teammates and coaching staff throughout the offseason. Head coach Jon Gruden has been one of the most vocal regarding Nelson as he stated on Wednesday that he believes the veteran wideout could be a huge factor in the passing game this upcoming season, according to Matt Kawahara of The San Francisco Chronicle.
“I think there’s a lot of guys that are like him in different sports that are able to play at a high level no matter how old they are,” Gruden said of Nelson on Wednesday. “I think he’s proven that since he’s been here. I was really pleased with him today. He’s a difference-maker for us.”
Nelson is coming off a season where he experienced a notable drop in production recording 53 receptions for 482 receiving yards and six touchdowns. This marked the lowest amount of receptions and receiving yards since the 2010 season, but what may have factor significantly into the equation was the fact that All-Pro quarterback Aaron Rodgers being sidelined for nine games last year due to a broken collarbone.
The 33-year-old has a chance to take a significant role in the passing game taking up Michael Crabtree's spot as the clear-cut No. 2 option behind Amari Cooper. This should see a fair amount of throws his way as Pro Bowl quarterback Derek Carr may lean on him heavily at times throughout the season.
This could lead to a bounce-back campaign for Nelson posting numbers more similar to his 2016 season where he registered 97 catches for 1,257 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns. Simply put, there is plenty of potential for him to prove that he still has much left in the tank.
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