It’s possible Hunter Renfrow’s rookie season has come to an end.
Renfrow, a fifth-round draft pick out of Clemson, evolved into a solid slot receiver for the Raiders over 11 games, catching 36 passes for 396 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
But in Oakland’s loss to the New York Jets Sunday, Renfrow took a shot from Jets cornerback Blessuan Austin and had to leave the game for a bit. When he returned, he was tackled again and forced to the sidelines for good.
On Monday, the Raiders reported Renfrow will be out at least a few weeks, and some reports indicated his season may be over. The NFL Network reported Renfrow suffered a broken rib and punctured lung, while the Raiders reported he had a rib injury.
"It’s a big, big loss for us," Raiders head coach Jon Gruden told reporters. "We’ve had a lot of turnover at that position this year. It’s really too bad. … Renfrow’s going to be a great Raider. He’s really been playing good for us."
Over the previous three games, all Raiders wins, Renfrow had caught 15 passes on 18 targets for 162 yards and a touchdown.
He ranks No. 2 on the team in catches behind only tight end Darren Waller, who has 59.
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Gruden said the team would be careful with Renfrow and allow him as much time as needed to get healthy.
Tweeted Renfrow Monday night: "Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes. I hate more than anything I can’t help this team for the next few weeks, but God doesn’t make mistakes! He will use this injury for his glory no matter what! I’ll be back better. #RaiderNation."
Gruden said Waller could play more in the slot, and Keelan Doss, Zay Jones and Derek Carrier also could get more snaps in the slot with Renfrow out.
The Raiders, 6-5, travel to Kansas City Sunday to take on the 7-4 Chiefs. Kickoff is set for 10 a.m.
