Nelson will accumulate at least 10 touchdowns

For a player that’s “washed and quarterback dependent,” this should be nearly impossible to achieve. Luckily, Nelson isn’t washed nor quarterback dependent. Ten touchdowns is well within Nelson’s reach despite only reeling in six last season. The bulk of his touchdowns will come from red zone targets. Nelson isn’t necessarily a deep threat receiver, especially with Amari Cooper and Martavis Bryant as the better options. But he is quick enough to maneuver in the red zone with his crisp route running.

Jon Gruden is sure to scheme Nelson open. It’s just a matter of Derek Carr delivering the ball and Nelson executing the route. The reason I believe Jordy Nelson will see the majority of his touchdowns in the red zone is because of how polished he is with the back shoulder throw. Nelson’s talents are more prevalent in the red zone or even within 30 yards than from the team’s own 25-yard line.

Nelson can still run, but it wouldn’t behoove Gruden to send him on a streak route every game. It’s not just the beautiful back shoulder Nelson can execute, but his ability to sell the run. Play action close to the goal line will be this offense’s bread and butter when they’re in a heavy set. Nelson’s blocking ability is sound, which makes feigning the run that much more believable. It makes his value on goal to go situations higher than even Amari Cooper because of his run blocking. Ten touchdowns for Jordy Nelson, with at least seven in the red zone. Bank on it.

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