800 receiving yards minimum

For the first time since 2010, Jordy Nelson didn’t eclipse 500 receiving yards. He only managed 482 yards in 2017, which once again, everyone blames on his age and missing Aaron Rodgers. Let’s entertain the narrative that he’s quarterback dependent. If that is the case, then Nelson is in excellent hands with Derek Carr. Too many people have written off or forgotten about Carr as if one bad season defines him. Sound familiar? The same can be said with Jordy Nelson. He has one bad season and everyone writes him off.

Both Nelson and Carr’s 2017 season needs context when discussing their subpar performance.  This makes Nelson joining the team a perfect pairing for Derek Carr. It’s weird saying this about a veteran a five-year quarterback, but both these players have a chip on their shoulder. Carr is going to come out slinging and be in command of the offense. That’s what Jon Gruden wants, which will present a plethora of opportunities for Nelson to tally at least 800 yards receiving.

800 yards receiving, given Nelson’s resume, isn’t really flashy. However, I’m judging him as the “washed” player that everyone thinks he is. 800 yards receiving, which is double what he earned last year, is rather impressive. I could argue that he can even attain 1,000 receiving yards, but that’s an insane stretch. Mainly because of the other talented receivers the Raiders have. It would also mean that Nelson would need to run a good amount of deep routes, along with yards after the catch (YAC). The Raiders don’t really need Nelson to do all that unless the ideal situation arises. 800 receiving yards for Jordy Nelson to put a lid on his critics.

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