Jordy Nelson's Presence Felt in Raiders Receiver Corps

ALAMEDA – Jordy Nelson was the biggest name to join the Raiders this offseason. A two-year contract brought the veteran receiver to Oakland days after Green Bay released him, and he's already made a major impact on his position group.

Quarterback Derek Carr has lauded Nelson's leadership, and his involvement with younger players in an overhauled position group. That has been clear during a productive offseason program that has just a three-day minicamp remaining.

"We've put in a few good months here in the meeting rooms and on the practice field," Nelson said Thursday, after helping coach a prep passing league tournament at Raiders HQ. "We have another week to go, but we've done well."

Nelson may be the biggest name among the new guys, but he isn't the only established receiver to join the Silver and Black. Martavis Bryant was acquired from Pittsburgh for a third-round pick during the NFL Draft, and has impressed Nelson in a few short weeks. 

"He's very talented," Nelson said. "Everyone has seen what Martavis has done in Pittsburgh. He's another threat to put out there in the passing game. He's another big threat as well. We have a few big guys to line up and hopefully create some mismatches. We're looking forward to him playing with us. We're excited to see him get on the field and get after it."

Nelson has helped Bryant and other receivers hit the ground running this offseason. He's involved in meetings and game plans, trying to be as quarterback friendly as possible.

"Nothing is just being left under the rug," Carr said last week. "Nothing is just being thrown out the window and not thought about. Jordy is very detailed. He wants to do everything exactly how you want it done. I see why Aaron (Rodgers) loved throwing him the ball. He knows if you're comfortable, you'll throw it to them. I think all the guys are taking note of that."

The Raiders hoped to add production and leadership with Nelson's acquisition. The 32-year old has a long track record of success in the NFL, save a down period save a stretch last year after Rodgers got hurt.

Nelson won't be a motivational speaker, but his professionalism could set an example for an otherwise young receiver corps.

"When you add a guy like that, it just trickles down throughout the whole room of guys just their study habits," Carr said. "You see Jordy off to the side when another group is in, if you just look over there, he is probably just telling somebody something about a route or a technique or a coverage. He's very smart. He can read coverage like a quarterback."

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