The Green Bay Packers released veteran wide receiver Jordy Nelson during free agency which in turn created a frenzy. Many teams inquired about the services of the 33-year-old receiver with the Oakland Raiders being the winners of the auction. The Raiders then released incumbent receiver Michael Crabtree, ultimately favoring Nelson over him. It was a move that received more criticism than praise from both media members and fans.
The main knock on Nelson was that he couldn’t move anymore. His speed was gone and without Aaron Rodgers throwing him the ball he was a shell of himself. Nelson’s age had caught up with him, so there were thoughts that he wasn’t good enough to be Crabtree’s replacement. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
In a year where the Raiders offense took a dive, Crabtree was nowhere to be found. Not in production nor leadership. Nelson isn’t a toxic player like Crabtree is. The leadership that he’ll provide the receivers and the team in general is the most beneficial trait about him. Nelson is a perfect fit for the Raiders offense since both had poor 2017 season. It’s only right that they team up to rebound in 2018.
On top of that, the knocks on Nelson are completely overblown. To say he’s washed just because he is 33 years old is a lazy analysis. Much to the unpopular opinion, Nelson can still produce, which that in itself is a bold prediction to many.
With that said, I give you my three bold predictions for Jordy Nelson in 2018.
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