Raiders prioritizing size with their new tight end group
As the roster currently stands, an average Raiders tight end is 6-foot-4 and 254 pounds.
That's no coincidence. Tight ends coach Bobby Johnson said the team went hunting for "bigger humans" at that spot this offseason.
“Bigger humans tend to be more durable, more physical and that’s the image and that’s the style of play we’re going to have here," Johnson told the team's official website. "It’s kind of what fits the Raider image. We’re going to be a big, physical team."
Johnson should be pleased with the size on his depth chart now. The team signed 6-foot-6 blocker Lee Smith and drafted 6-foot-4 prospect Clive Walford.
Now, 6-foot-3 and 245-pound incumbent Mychal Rivera looks like the small tight end on the team. And he could look even smaller by comparison if two other Raiders -- offensive linemen Khalif Barnes and Donald Penn -- get their wish for more playing time at tight end near the goal line.
“I know that both Khalif and Donald have stopped short of offering monetary incentives, but they’ve been openly politicking to get the ball," Johnson said. "I’m aware of their skill sets."
Soon, the rest of the AFC West will be too. Oakland just got taller and stronger at tight end, and it'll be up to the Broncos, Chiefs, and Chargers to try and stop them.
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