The Oakland Raiders are hoping they have a few hidden gems on the roster that can help create a more powerful offense in 2015. Of course Amari Cooper and Derek Carr are expected to be the x-factors, but depth is a question and the Raiders are hopeful training camp helps determine the real potential of players. With several starting spots still up for grabs, certain players are grasping the chance for more playing time.
Cooper was drafted to be the leading receiver for the Raiders, but lost in the hype of the rookie is Andre Holmes who is returning in hopes of being the other star of the offense. According to ESPN, Andre Holmes is quickly making a name for himself in the offense after showing off the play of the day at Sunday's practice. Holmes was brought back as a restricted free agent for the Raiders without much hype around him. However, with Cooper and Michael Crabtree likely penciled in as the starting two receivers, Holmes can make his case to earn the third slot.
The same is being said for tight end Clive Walford who is battling Mychal Rivera for a chance to start. After battling injuries, Walford is set to return to full speed during training camp. The tight end told the media that he is simply looking for any way to contribute while the Raiders predict a big role for the rookie.
"It's good to get out here and get our feet up under us, get the blood flowing and get the feel for it before the veterans get out here. It feels great." "I do have my personal goals and my personal expectations, but I'm just trying to get better. I won't look too far ahead. That's what training camp is for, to try to earn a spot on the roster and a starting job, and that's what I'm aiming for."
The Raiders also have drama brewing at the running back position as Michael Dyer shows off some good moves in practice. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, Trent Richardson is not guaranteed a roster spot and if one of the younger running backs steps up, he could be off the roster. Dyer is doing his best to knock the veteran off. According to head coach Jack Del Rio, Dyer continues to be a standout player for the Raiders as he is excelling as a running back and special teams player.
"I think Michael's done a nice job developing from what we saw in the spring to now," Del Rio said, via CBSSports.com. "He's more comfortable, he's more accountable, more dependable in special teams units and the offense. Every now and then he'll pop through there and show some of that speed that he has, so I think he's off to a nice start."
