Las Vegas Raiders' 2023 Draft Class Faces Mixed Results in Week 2 Victory
ICARO Media Group
The Las Vegas Raiders' second-year players from the 2023 draft class showed diverse performances as they emerged with a hard-fought 26-23 win over the Baltimore Ravens, setting the stage for their upcoming matchup against the Carolina Panthers in Week 3.
Out of the nine players selected in the draft, eight remain on the roster. However, the Raiders made the decision to cut third-round pick Byron Young, who was quickly claimed by the Philadelphia Eagles. Young was inactive in Week 1 but will now have a fresh start with his new team.
The Raiders' top pick, chosen seventh overall, was unable to participate in the game against the Ravens due to a knee injury sustained in Week 1 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Although the injury was not deemed long-term, the rookie will need time to recover before making his mark on the field. With fellow defensive end Malcolm Koonce also sidelined, expectations are high for this first-rounder when he gets back to full strength.
The second-round pick, a standout from Notre Dame, had a decent outing against the Ravens, playing 62 percent of the snaps and securing one catch for 11 yards. In Week 1, he played 57 percent of the snaps, recording two catches for a minimal gain of three yards. The Raiders are eager to maximize his potential and develop a formidable tight end tandem alongside the star performer Brock Bowers, who leads all NFL tight ends with 15 catches for 156 yards.
Meanwhile, the third-round selection had a reduced role in the game plan against the Ravens compared to his involvement in the Chargers matchup. With only 60 percent of snaps, he contributed modestly with two catches for 13 yards. However, his swift speed may prompt the coaching staff to incorporate him more prominently in the coming game against the Panthers.
The fourth-round pick, a cornerback, demonstrated notable growth compared to his rookie season, playing 71 percent of the snaps against the Ravens and making impactful plays with two passes defended. With a promising start to the season, he aims to become a key asset for the Raiders' defensive unit.
As for the former starting quarterback who lost his position in a training camp battle, he has found himself as the backup to Gardner Minshew. Ryan O'Connell has yet to see any playing time this season, waiting for an opportunity to prove his abilities once again.
Among the late-round selections, the fifth-round safety primarily contributed on special teams with 24 snaps in the Ravens game, while the sixth-round pick had a similar involvement on special teams with 21 snaps. Limited defensive playing time indicates their potential impact on that side of the game is yet to be seen.
The seventh-round pick also had a minor role, playing eight defensive snaps against the Ravens and ten snaps in Week 1. However, as they gain valuable experience in the field, the coaching staff may consider expanding their playing time moving forward.
Overall, it was a relatively quiet day for the Las Vegas Raiders' 2023 draft class. While certain players showed encouraging performances, others faced injury setbacks or had limited involvement. As the team heads into Week 3 against the Carolina Panthers, the Raiders will continue to strive for the development and contribution of their second-year players from the draft class.