John Brown is back in free agency. The veteran wide receiver requested his release from the Raiders, who honored that request, Tom Pelissero of NFL.com tweets.
Although Brown played well for the Bills, he was not trending toward having a surefire role with the Raiders. Las Vegas signed the 31-year-old speedster earlier this year and guaranteed him more than $3M, making this a disadvantageous financial move for the Jon Gruden-led regime. Though, offset language — should Brown land another gig this season — could come into play.
The Raiders have 2020 draftees Henry Ruggs and Bryan Edwards in place for key roles, with Hunter Renfrow and veterans Willie Snead and Zay Jones on their roster as well. Darren Waller also serves as Vegas’ de facto No. 1 receiver, creating a different dynamic for the team’s wideouts.
Brown battled injury issues in 2020 but topped 1,000 yards in ’19, helping Josh Allen progress in his second season. Brown has two 1,000-yard slates on his resume, getting there with the Cardinals in 2015, and figures to catch on elsewhere soon.
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