3 Things to Watch as Raiders Rookies Report to Camp

The Las Vegas Raiders rookie class reported to training camp, and there are a few notable things to pay attention to.

The Las Vegas Raiders rookie class reported to training camp on Thursday, as the 2023 NFL regular season inches closer each day.

This rookie class features nine 2023 NFL Draft selections, 10 undrafted free agent signings, and one player from the NFL’s International Players Program. 

This is the second time the rookies will have the opportunity to practice on an NFL field, as they went through rookie minicamp in May.

There are several intriguing rookies on this Raiders team, some who might earn an opportunity to play early on. Let’s take a closer look at three things to pay attention to with these Raiders rookies.

Jakorian Bennett’s explosiveness -- Fourth-round cornerback Jakorian Bennett was one of the more explosive athletes at the NFL Scouting Combine in February. With a 4.3 40-yard dash and a 40.5 inch vertical jump, Bennett scored the third-highest athleticism test of all cornerbacks at the combine.

Bennett’s athleticism and ball skills will be on display at training camp, as he will have the opportunity to match up with receivers and look to make plays on the ball, one of the reasons that made him so appealing to General Manager Dave Ziegler and the Raiders’ brass.

Aidan O’Connell’s velocity -- The Raiders opted not to take a quarterback early, and instead decided to select O’Connell on day three of the draft. O’Connell has the size and arm strength of an NFL quarterback.

O'Connell also possesses accuracy and velocity on his throws, which is what made him so enticing to the Raiders. O’Connell will show that velocity in camp as he battles for the backup quarterback spot. If he can learn Coach Josh McDaniels’ system quickly, it will only increase his chances of earning the job.

McClendon Curtis’ assimilation -- McClendon Curtis was an undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, but he had the profile of a day three selection.

Curtis will be battling for a spot on the 53-man roster, and his size, versatility, and pass blocking prowess should help his chances. How quickly he can adjust to the speed of the NFL will be crucial in determining if he has a shot of earning a roster spot.

The Las Vegas Raiders open training camp for the entire team on July 25, 2023.

The Silver and Black open the preseason by hosting the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Aug. 13, at 4 p.m. EDT/1 p.m. PDT.

Please tell us your thoughts when you like our Facebook Page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.