Dylan Laube is averaging a mind-blowing 33.4 yards per kick return, an NFL-leading number that should have every defensive coordinator scrambling. This guy is straight up making plays, proving he’s a certified weapon, even after the Raiders’ tough 30-27 Week 4 home loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Laube’s Explosive Returns Are a Game Changer
Seriously, Laube, the sixth-round pick, might only be seeing seven snaps on offense, but when he’s out there for special teams, he’s electric. We just saw him rip off a 53-yard return against the Chiefs, and get this, that’s his second long return of the season. You’re talking about a guy who can flip field position in an instant, giving his team a massive advantage. If he keeps this up, he’s not just a returner, he’s a legitimate offensive threat waiting to break loose.
Raiders’ Draft Class Getting Tested Early
It’s not just Laube making noise from the Raiders’ 2024 draft class. First-round pick Brock Bowers is already showing why he was such a high pick. Even battling a game-day illness, the dude played 82 percent of the snaps and snagged six catches for 86 yards. With a depleted wide receiver group, you know he’s going to be absolutely central to their game plan this Sunday at the New England Patriots. Then there’s Jackson Powers-Johnson, the second-round center, who missed the Chiefs game with a groin injury. His replacement at right guard, Caleb Rogers, struggled in pass protection, so Powers-Johnson’s return at New England is going to be absolutely crucial. Third-round pick D.J. Glaze is holding his own too, starting at right tackle and continuing his strong season as a pass blocker. And let’s not forget Tommy Eichenberg, the fifth-round linebacker from Ohio State. He was a special teams captain for Week 4, playing 26 snaps there, alongside 13 defensive snaps, pushing his season defensive snap count to 48. These rookies are getting thrown into the fire early, and some of them are shining.
This Sunday, the Raiders head to Foxborough to face the New England Patriots. Keep your eyes peeled for Laube’s special teams magic and watch how Bowers steps up with an even bigger role. Every yard and every block will count big time.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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