3 Key Raiders Players To Watch Against Dolphins

Yes, this is cliché, but having an elite player on the edge can create chaos for opposing offenses in all phases. Maxx Crosby is back after basically being traded to the Baltimore Ravens for high draft picks, only for a failed physical to send him back to the desert within days.

Crosby is an elite pass rusher who could overwhelm the Dolphins' offensive tackles and is as disciplined as any defender at the mesh point. His presence will be critical against the dynamic duo of running back De’Von Achane and quarterback Malik Willis. When Crosby makes his presence known, it may finally mean success for the Raiders.

Michael Mayer, Tight End

With star tight end Brock Bowers out, the opportunity has arrived for Michael Mayer, who enters a contract year with the Raiders and is interviewing for his future with the franchise and other teams across the league.

Mayer should be the No. 1 pass-catcher on the roster on Sunday, which is immense pressure. Yet he has shown he can handle that responsibility in the past and should be a reliable security blanket for quarterback Kirk Cousins. Look for Mayer to be a key feature in head coach Klint Kubiak’s offense.

Treydan Stukes, Defensive Back

After what was an impressive training camp and preseason, second-round rookie Treydan Stukes is the Raiders' starting free safety. A short acclimation period early in the summer didn’t stop Stukes from making plays all camp and throughout the preseason. Stukes' combination of versatility, football IQ, athleticism, and play-making ability stood out in a big way.

Stukes won’t be pigeonholed to one spot, though. Look for defensive coordinator Rob Leonard to move him around the secondary with some nickel reps sprinkled in. He is too talented to keep him in a singular role, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he becomes one of the standout players from Sunday, regardless of the result.