The Raiders received even more devastating news when Antonio Pierce disclosed a devastating injury to one of his most dedicated players, leading to a massive collapse for his team before their matchup with…
When a team has no postseason hopes going into its final regular season game, it can be difficult to determine the motivations of both the fan base and management. Many would rather lose than improve their draft position, but those vying for the love of the game and their future do not feel the same way. This should apply to the Las Vegas Raiders (7-9) even more.
Antonio Pierce, the interim head coach, will have one final opportunity to establish his worth as a full-time leader on Sunday at home against the Denver Broncos (8-8) before the team heads into the offseason and makes a decision regarding the position. However, Pierce might not be able to leave the field with one more memorable performance due to two important injury updates.
According to Tashan Reed of The Athletic, the Raiders’ running back Josh Jacobs and rookie tight end Michael Mayer did not practice on Thursday. Friday’s participation level will undoubtedly have a significant impact on their standing for Week 18.
Will Michael Mayer and Josh Jacobs be able to close 2023 on a positive note?
Aside from their individual injuries, both players have had difficult campaigns that have ended what could have been successful individual seasons due to offensive deficiencies. Despite having a difficult season overall, Jacobs has begun to display glimpses of his 2022 All-Pro potential following impressive performances in November against the Kansas City Chiefs and New York Jets. With a quadriceps injury that has kept him out of action for the past three games, he now has 805 rushing yards (3.5 per carry) and six touchdowns.
Mayer, who was selected with the 35th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has not performed up to par. With only 27 receptions, he has 304 yards and two touchdowns. Those dismal numbers are at least partially the result of an unfavorable quarterback situation, but after scoring against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 15, he gave fans hope. Since then, a toe ailment has kept him out of commission.
The Raiders are a fierce team that will give the Broncos everything they can handle if Josh Jacobs and Michael Mayer can play. Actually, you should anticipate it anyhow.
