The Las Vegas Raiders have undergone a notable transformation, shifting from a team facing significant uncertainty to one with a more promising outlook. In the short term, they appear to be substantially improved compared to their recent seasons. If Geno Smith can deliver consistent quarterback play and Pete Carroll can recapture his success from his Seattle Seahawks tenure, the Raiders should be a competitive force.
While a Super Bowl run might be premature, the Raiders are potentially just a few strategic moves away from challenging the top teams in the AFC West. To achieve this, bolstering their wide receiver corps is essential.
Las Vegas Raiders Adding Keenan Allen “Will Be Fun, I Promise”
With several under-the-radar free agents still available, including Keenan Allen of the Chicago Bears, the Raiders have an opportunity to strengthen their receiving options. Allen’s performance with the Bears was not his best, but it was influenced by a rookie quarterback and coaching instability. Nick Shook of NFL.com suggests the Raiders should pursue Allen.
“The 6-2 Allen knows the AFC West quite well, thanks to the many years spent with the Chargers. By the end of last season, Las Vegas felt like an afterthought, but by hiring Pete Carroll and acquiring Smith, the Raiders quickly shifted their identity and now appear focused on climbing up the NFL ladder, with a group of veterans leading the way. Adding Allen to the mix will be fun, I promise,” Shook wrote.
Although Allen is 32, and therefore in the latter stages of his career, his 2023 season with the Los Angeles Chargers demonstrated his continued ability to perform at a high level. He posted 1,243 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, proving he remains a potent offensive weapon.