The Oakland Raiders are determined to build a top offense in 2015. Drafting Derek Carr last year was the first step into making that a reality and getting Amari Cooper in the first round this weekend was the next move to be made. Cooper is expected to be an immediate threat for the Raiders, but his arrival means the release of other veterans which James Jones is learning the hard way.
CSNBayArea.com is reporting the Raiders are releasing Jones after just one season with the team following the drafting of Cooper. The Raiders originally signed Jones as one of the top free agents back in 2014 and he certainly did his job with 112 targets and 73 catches, but his touchdowns were lacking considering he put up 14 for the Green Bay Packers in 2012. While Jones was a nice threat for the Raiders, his age is likely working against him as the 31-year-old now becomes a free agent.
The release of Jones shows the confidence that the Raiders have in not only Cooper, but in Michael Crabtree as well. Oakland gave Crabtree a second chance after roller coaster stint with the San Francisco 49ers. Head coack Jack Del Rio has expressed his confidence in the wide receiver while Crabtree told the media he is aware he is on thin ice and has a lot to prove. Crabtree did not land the multi-year contract he was pushing for originally which means this season is an audition year for the receiver.
"I have a lot to prove," Crabtree said, via the San Francisco Chronicle. "A lot to prove. Ain't got nothing to lose and have a lot to prove. I'm here. Guys want me and need me. I talked to the coach. He wants me and needs me. I feel comfortable. I can't wait to go play."
Along with Andre Holmes, Crabtree and Cooper have a chance to be something special for Carr in 2015. Trent Richardson can help do the same. Like Crabtree, Richardson is getting a second chance with the Raiders after failed stints with the Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts. If the running back can return to the type of player with the University of Alabama, the Raiders will have that top-notch offense they are trying to build.