Raiders Rumors: Is Hunter Renfrow, Wide Receiver, Finally Leaving Las Vegas?
Just a few seasons back, Hunter Renfrow was widely regarded as one of the top slot receivers in the NFL. In 2021, the Las Vegas Raiders wideout earned a Pro Bowl selection, amassing impressive stats with 103 receptions for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns.
Following his standout performance, Renfrow landed a lucrative two-year, $32 million contract extension from the Raiders. However, injuries plagued his 2022 season, limiting his appearances to just 10 games. Despite expectations for a rebound season, Renfrow experienced the worst year of his career thus far.
Renfrow’s availability for trade has been public knowledge for over a year, but the Raiders have struggled to find a suitable deal. Now, according to Pro Football Focus, the Raiders’ financial situation appears conducive to outright releasing Renfrow this offseason:
This decision has been brewing for some time, as Las Vegas has been exploring trade options for Renfrow for over a year. With Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers solidifying themselves as the top two receivers and the emergence of rookie Tre Tucker, the financial aspects finally align with the roster strategy.
By parting ways with Renfrow, the Raiders would free up $8.2 million in salary cap space, a significant amount for a player who isn’t seeing much action. With Adams, Meyers, and the potential growth of tight end Michael Mayer and Tre Tucker, Renfrow’s role seems diminished.
Renfrow’s decline from being a pivotal Raiders member just two years ago is surprising, but there’s still talent to offer and a fresh start with a team in need of his skill set could be beneficial.
In reality, a separation between Renfrow and the Raiders appears to be the most sensible move for both parties at this juncture.
Additionally, another likely departure from the Raiders this offseason is quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. Despite signing a three-year deal with the franchise last year, Garoppolo faced benching mid-season. Now, with a two-game suspension at the start of the 2024 season due to violating the NFL’s Performance Enhancing Substances Policy, the Raiders could save over $10 million by potentially voiding his base salary guarantee for next season.
