Raiders Face Receiver Challenges Ahead of Steelers Matchup
HENDERSON, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders are dealing with a setback as wide receiver Jakobi Meyers has been marked as doubtful due to an ankle injury, further straining an already thin receiving unit ahead of their upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
If Meyers is unable to participate in the Sunday match, the Raiders will find themselves missing their top two wide receivers. Davante Adams, who is the primary target, is set to miss his third consecutive game due to a hamstring issue.
In the past two games, Meyers had stepped up to take on the role of a leading receiver, seeing 19 targets and securing 11 receptions for a total of 121 yards.
With Meyers potentially sidelined, Tre Tucker, known for his speed on the field, may emerge as the primary receiving option. Tucker has accumulated 18 receptions for 190 yards and one touchdown this season.
Additionally, tight end Brock Bowers, who currently leads all tight ends with 28 catches and 313 yards, is expected to shoulder an increased workload in this matchup.
This situation presents a significant challenge for Aidan O’Connell, who has been appointed as the starting quarterback this week. Gardner Minshew, who had started for the Raiders in their first five games, was demoted earlier in the week. O’Connell had previously stepped in as the starter midway through last season, leading the Raiders to a respectable 5-4 finish, although he benefited from a more extensive lineup of offensive weapons at that time.
On the opposite side, the Steelers are gaining some reinforcements with running back Jaylen Warren expected to return after missing the last two games due to a knee injury. Warren, who serves as the backup to starter Najee Harris, has recorded 54 rushing yards over 14 carries this season.