Why the Raiders Will Have the Best Offense
Last season, the Oakland Raiders had the sixth best offense and they only got better in the offseason. The Raiders had two major free agent signings with receiving tight end Jared Cook, and All-Pro power back Marshawn Lynch. These signings push the prolific offense over the edge and they will be the best offense in the NFL. Oakland will be unstoppable in the 2017 campaign because they have 5 players (Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, Cordarrelle Patterson, Jared Cook, and Marshawn Lynch) who can score at will.
The Raider just made Derek Carr the highest paid player in the league with a $125 million contract extension. Carr is coming off a broken ankle that ended his 2016 season, and he will win the Comeback Player of the Year Award. Carr’s favorite targets are Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree who both surpassed 1,000 yards last season. I expect each of these players to repeat their success and for Cooper to have a breakout year with 1,400 yards and 10 touchdowns. I also predict that Carr will have a career year with 4,500 yards and 35 touchdowns.
Signing Marshawn Lynch and Jared Cook pushed this offense from good to great. Marshawn Lynch was an All-Pro and five-time Pro-Bowl selection who wanted to come play for his hometown team before they relocate to Las Vegas in two seasons. Marshawn is in top form and I would expect big things from him this year. Marshawn took all last season off, and only played in 7 games during the 2015 season. His body is well rested and he will be the workhorse back this team desperately needs. The signing of Jared Cook gives Derek Carr yet another target who can put up big numbers. Cook is an 8-year veteran who will have an immediate impact.
These weapons in the Raiders’ offense will keep the defense honest, and the Raiders will methodically pick apart every team they face.