The Las Vegas Raiders entered the NFL offseason with a real need to add firepower to its offense, particularly at the wide receiver position. Using the 2020 NFL Draft, they made Henrry Ruggs III out of Alabama the first receiver taken off the board.
The performance Ruggs III put together at the NFL Scouting Combine helped him to rise up draft boards. His 4.27-second time in the 40-yard dash added intrigue to his potential as a possible Tyreek Hill type talent considering the speed comparison between the two players.
The production Ruggs III provided the Crimson Tide was held back to an extent because he played in such a loaded offense. Regardless, he posted 40 receptions for 746 yards and seven touchdowns in 12 performances last season.
There was some debate regarding who the top receiver in this year’s draft class was between Ruggs III along with Jerry Jeudy and even CeeDee Lamb. While all three are certainly projected as being valuable contributors in the NFL, the speed that Ruggs III brings to the table appealed Las Vegas.
The Raiders will be playing in a potentially loaded AFC West division next season with hopes of earning a playoff spot. Between the defender Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs setting the tone, the Denver Broncos and Las Angeles Chargers all improved in the offseason, too.
Taking all of that into consideration, let’s take a look at what to expect from Henry Ruggs III during his rookie campaign with the Raiders.
