The Raiders are starting to look more like the Patriots.
Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Raiders and New England free-agent WR Jakobi Meyers agreed to a three-year, $33M deal with $21M guaranteed.
Meyers joins QB Jimmy Garoppolo as the second former Patriot Las Vegas agreed to sign this offseason. Additionally, it signed DE Chandler Jones last March, who played for New England from 2012-15.
Coincidentally, Meyers and Jones already share a connection thanks to an unforgettable final play in the Raiders’ 30-24 victory over New England in Week 15.
The interest in New England players isn’t surprising because Raiders HC Josh McDaniels served as Patriots OC for 13 seasons, and GM Dave Ziegler was in the front office for nine seasons. Therefore, Ziegler and McDaniels want to rebuild the franchise using familiar pieces.
Meyers played for three seasons under McDaniels. In 2021, he produced career highs in receptions (83) and receiving yards (866). Last season, he recorded a career-high in receiving TDs (six).
The 26-year-old wideout has not made a Pro Bowl, but he could benefit from an offense with a more potent passing game. Las Vegas ranked 11th in passing yards in 2022, while New England ranked 26th.
Meyers can also be the No. 2 WR behind six-time Pro Bowler Davante Adams.
In 2022, Adams was the league’s receiving TD leader (14), meaning he will continue attracting double coverage. Las Vegas needs a reliable second target, and are hoping Meyers fulfills this role.
