The Las Vegas Raiders, led by Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler, have consistently demonstrated a proactive approach in their decision-making. Despite missing out on drafting C.J. Stroud, they had a trade-up strategy in place, showcasing their strategic foresight. They also made astute moves, such as the signing of Jimmy Gafroppolo, a decision that has since brought them significant financial returns.
That regime made some bad decisions, as did the regime before it. But you have to give credit where credit is due, and there is one thing they did right. The Las Vegas Raiders really dodged a bullet not long ago. A decent portion of the fan base was upset when the Raiders traded away one of the best tight ends in the league, Darren Waller. He was easily a top-three guy at his position.
But, after some recent news, it feels like it was obviously the right decision.
On a Monday, a series of reports emerged indicating that former Las Vegas Raiders tight end Darren Waller was considering retirement. These reports specified that Waller was contemplating this decision before the New York Giants minicamp. This news undoubtedly shocks many, as Waller's talent and contributions to the game are undeniable when he is on.
So, not only did the Raiders get Waller on a different team before he could retire and leave the Raiders hanging, but they also got some great value in the process. A few years ago, the Kansas City Chiefs traded for Kadarius Toney from the New York Giants and sent their third-round pick, pick No. 100, to the Giants. When the Raiders traded Waller to the Giants, the Raiders got that pick in return.
That pick later turned out to be wide receiver Tre Tucker, who had the two longest catches of the season for the Raiders last year. He has shown tremendous potential so far and is exactly what the Raiders need.
Tucker was a rookie last year in a bad offense and now has the chance to be the third option behind guys like Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers, who demand a lot of attention as players. After getting his rookie year out of the way and having the offensive system in place that the Raiders have, it's not a fallacy that the young wide receiver can be great in 2024.
This offseason will be the year that Tucker takes a leap. He has already been working relentlessly with Aidan O'Connell in the offseason and is now in an offense that will help him thrive. So, not only did the Raiders dodge a bullet, but they also got a great player in return. It seems that the old regime, one of the worst in Raiders history, made a good decision.
