Raiders news: Las Vegas wanted to improve in one area in particular in the draft

The Las Vegas Raiders were not shy about acknowledging their shortcomings on the roster throughout the offseason, leading into 2020.

The Las Vegas Raiders were not shy about acknowledging their shortcomings on the roster throughout the offseason. Fortunately, the 2020 NFL Draft gave them an opportunity to address one of the more overlooked aspects of the game in special teams.

The Raiders made a splash by taking Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs with the 12th overall pick. General manager Mike Mayock says Ruggs' skill set on both offense and special teams will be heavily utilized, via Levi Damien of the Raiders Wire:

“Henry Ruggs III is a difference-maker, yesterday on the offensive side. Ruggs is a difference-maker. Lynn Bowden Jr, we talked about him and what he can bring to the table. Bowden can return punts, Ruggs III can return kickoffs. We’re trying to do more than just draft guys that play one thing. Versatility is important.”

Mayock added that he and the Raiders are expecting Clemson hybrid linebacker/safety Tanner Muse to take on an immediate role in special teams.

“The rub for him day one is to be a core special teams player,” Mayock said of Muse. “While he’s getting 20, 25 snaps a game at special teams he’s got to learn how to [play] MIKE and WILL linebacker. He’s predominately a safety but he’s going to be a linebacker for us. We think he’s one of the smartest and most intuitive players in the draft and we expect him to learn both positions in addition to playing special teams.”

Ruggs was the first receiver off the board in one of the deepest classes at the position in recent history. Although the Raiders have not been shy about his blazing speed being a deciding factor for them, it seems his versatility as a return man also played a part in their decision to take him.

Meanwhile, there remains some speculation regarding where Muse will line up on defense, however, it seems his status as a key player on special teams has already been determined. If he hopes to etch out an immediate role on the Raiders in the 2020 NFL season, this may very will be the best chance for him to make a strong impression on the front office.