Raiders: 3 wide receivers who are shining at the 2020 Senior Bowl
By Justin Fried
3. Michael Pittman Jr. USC
With Hunter Renfrow expected to man the slot role for the foreseeable future, the Raiders will be looking to add another starter on the outside this offseason — preferably someone who could compliment Tyrell Williams‘ skill set.
In that case, USC’s Michael Pittman Jr. could be an ideal target.
Pittman is a big-bodied, physical receiver who stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs in at 220 pounds. His catch radius is among the best in the class as he uses his tall frame and long arms to high-point passes in jump-ball situations.
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He won’t be mistaken for a burner, but Pittman has enough speed to get off the line even is his route-running needs some work.
Pittman went into the Senior Bowl with questions about his ability to separate at the next level given his lack of overwhelming speed and unpolished route-running. But the USC product has impressed scouts and could see his draft stock skyrocket as a result.
At the moment, he’s considered to be a Day 2 prospect but he could see his stock rise to as early as a fringe-first-round option. Still, with three third-round picks, the Raiders could look to target Pittman even if it requires a trade-up.
Pittman’s father also played running back for Jon Gruden’s Tampa Bay back in the 2000s providing a sense of familiarity with the Raiders’ head coach.
Pittman would be an ideal X-receiver and someone who could be an excellent fit in the Raiders’ offense.