The Oakland Raiders have completed a prominent receiver swap: The Raiders signed Jordy Nelson, who was released in Green Bay – and in return split with Michael Crabtree.
Nelson’s deal was particularly surprising: The long-standing Packers receiver received a two-year contract for 15 million, with guarantees amounting to 13 million dollars.
Nelson’s been on the receiving end of rumors all day. The 32-year-old was the first team to visit Oakland, but the Seattle Seahawks and the New Orleans Saints were among the fierce competitors for the receiver’s services.
Nelson had regressed significantly in the past season after Aaron Rodgers’ injury and is no longer as explosive as he was in previous years. Apparently, new Raiders coach Jon Gruden still hopes that Nelson quarterback Derek Carr can help turn the tide after a disappointing pre-season.
At the same time, Oakland fired Michael Crabtree, who in turn had a desolate season – but had no guarantees in his contract and only a cap hit of $7.7 million for 2018. The 30-year-old should now have a larger market for himself.