The Las Vegas Raiders, missing rookie tight end Michael Mayer since Week 15 and out of playoff contention, have taken steps to bolster their tight end depth for the remainder of the 2023 season. In a move reported on January 2 by KPRC2’s Aaron Wilson, the team has signed rookie tight end E.J. Jenkins to the practice squad. Jenkins, initially with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent, brings significant size to the team at 6-foot-7 and 243 pounds.
Despite his limited impact in the passing game during his senior season at Georgia Tech, where he recorded 17 catches for 316 yards, Jenkins’ stature positions him as a potential asset for blocking and red zone plays. While it’s unlikely he will see action in Week 18, there’s speculation that he might secure a Reserve/Futures contract with the Raiders post-season.
Concerns about the Raiders’ offensive performance this season have prompted discussions about necessary changes. Currently ranking fourth-worst in the NFL with an average of 19.1 points per game, issues with playcalling and quarterback performance contributed to the dismissal of head coach Josh McDaniels. Interim offensive coordinator Bo Hardegree has struggled to bring about significant improvements.
The Athletic’s Tashan Reed suggests a comprehensive overhaul of the offense in the upcoming offseason, emphasizing the need for a new offensive play caller. Hardegree’s interim role has reinforced the perception that McDaniels’ system is static, predictable, and ineffective.
Despite possessing notable offensive talents like Davante Adams, Josh Jacobs, and Jakobi Meyers, the Raiders’ offensive potential hinges on the choices for offensive coordinator and starting quarterback for the next season.
In a surprising turn of events, rookie quarterback Aidan O’Connell found himself starting the season due to Jimmy Garoppolo’s struggles. Despite not expected to compete for the starting role next season, interim head coach Antonio Pierce commends O’Connell’s growth throughout the challenging season, leaving the quarterback situation open-ended for the future.
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