The Las Vegas Raiders did a lot of work on wide receivers heading into the draft, so many expected them to take one with their second-round pick. However, the team waited until they took Malik Benson in the sixth round.
Wide receiver remains a need, and the Raiders decided to add a player with whom quarterback Fernando Mendoza is very familiar. Las Vegas has signed former Indiana wide receiver EJ Williams as an undrafted free agent, per ESPN’s Ryan McFadden.
Williams spent six years in college, originally playing for Clemson before transferring to Indiana. 2025 was his best year, as he caught 36 passes for 438 yards and six touchdowns.
He had a good rapport with Mendoza, which should help him at least get a chance to make the roster or the practice squad. An appealing aspect of Williams is that he’s big. He’s listed at 6-foot-4. The Raiders need an X receiver, so he can at least compete to earn that job.
He’s got a lot of work to do to get a roster spot, but he’ll at least be in the mix due to his previous chemistry with Mendoza. The Raiders also added former Indiana running back Roman Hemby as an undrafted free agent.
Could Benson Be an Impact Player?
The Raiders’ wide receiver room is very thin, so there will be plenty of opportunities for the rookies to earn roles. Benson will have the best chance to make the roster, considering the team used a pick on him.
He’s another speedster, which the Raiders already have, but it never hurts to have more speed. The Athletic’s Sam Warren thinks Benson can have some upside as a downfield target for Mendoza.
“The Raiders finally add a receiver in the sixth round. Las Vegas had a need for an X, particularly one who can make the contested catches Fernando Mendoza had so much success with at Indiana,” Warren wrote. “While they had several chances to take one over Days 2 and 3, Benson can somewhat fit that role with a value pick. He presents a vertical option for Mendoza, but needs to improve his play strength to be a true 50/50 guy.”
Raiders Need to Consider Adding Vet WR
After the draft, it’s fair to argue that the Raiders’ wide receiver room is the weakest on the team. Jalen Nailor might be the No. 1 option, and he’s never had more than 444 yards in a season.
Perhaps 2025 draft picks Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton could take major leaps this year, but that’s a big gamble. Tre Tucker had a solid year, but he’s not a No. 1.
The Raiders may want to consider signing a veteran in free agency. Jauan Jennings makes a lot of sense. He has previously worked with head coach Klint Kubiak in the past, and is more in line with the type of X receiver the Raiders need. Keenan Allen is getting older, but he’s still a guy who knows how to get open. He’d make sense as a veteran to have in the room. It’s hard to see the team targeting Tyreek Hill or Stefon Diggs.
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