The Raiders recently gave Hunter Renfrow a contract extension as he is coming off the best season of his career. He caught over 100 passes, surpassing 1,000 receiving yards as he’s now widely viewed as one of the NFL’s best slot receivers.
The Raiders were able to snag Renfrow well into Day 3 of the 2019 NFL Draft and he has certainly outplayed that draft spot. But just how high should he have been selected?
In a recent article by Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus, he re-drafted the entire first round of the 2019 draft. In that redraft, Renfrow was selected at pick No. 28 to the Los Angeles Chargers. Here is what Sikkema had to say about the former Clemson star and now Pro Bowler:
“If you look at Renfrow’s pre-draft measurements and combine results, you’ll see why he wasn’t a first-round pick. On the other hand, his 1,038 receiving yards, nine receiving touchdowns and 82.3 receiving grade from this past season say otherwise. He sneaks into this re-draft, and I think it’s warranted for how reliable a slot receiver he is.”
Renfrow really is a valuable weapon in the slot as he is nearly impossible to defend one-on-one. He’s managed to improve his route running over the last few years, but his ability after the catch has steadily gotten better throughout his career.
With Davante Adams now on the outside and a healthy Darren Waller back in the lineup, Renfrow could be in for an even bigger season. He should see far fewer double teams and should remain one of Derek Carr’s favorite options on third down.