When the Raiders went to training camp in 2019, the expectation was that Antonio Brown and Tyrell Williams would be the team’s two leading receivers and that fifth-round pick Hunter Renfrow wouldn’t be needed. But after the team released Brown before Week 1 of the regular season, Renfrow’s role grew as he became nearly a full-time player.
In 13 games, Renfrow caught 49 passes for 605 yards to along with four touchdowns. The former Clemson slot receiver did miss three games due to a rib fracture and a lung puncture late in his rookie season. However, Renfrow finished the season as one of the top players in his draft class, grading out as Pro Football Focus’ fourth-ranked rookie receiver.
Highest graded rookie WRs
1. Terry McLaurin – 85.7
2. A.J. Brown – 81.8
3. Deebo Samuel – 77.5
4. Hunter Renfrow – 76.0 pic.twitter.com/2BPU2Pkoe9— PFF (@PFF) March 9, 2020
With a year under his belt, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Renfrow made a big leap in 2020. While he’s not expected to be the team’s primary outside receiver, it wouldn’t be a shock to see him get more targets in Jon Gruden’s offense.
Expect the Raiders to select a wide receiver early in the 2020 NFL Draft, but for Renfrow to continue to dominate in the slot next season. He should see a significant uptick in targets this season and has a decent chance to catch 80 or more passes in Year 2.
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