Could Raiders reunite with former standout eyeing return?

Hunter Renfrow didn't play in the NFL in 2024 after suiting up with the Raiders for several seasons.

Is he ready for a return?

NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that Renfrow was set to visit with the Raiders on Friday. Per Rapoport, Renfrow visited with the Panthers and could meet with other teams since he plans to play in 2025.

It is not surprising that Renfrow is visiting with his old team after he was released in March 2024. His release came on the heels of two bad seasons when he only had 585 yards and two touchdowns under then-head coaches Josh McDaniels and Antonio Pierce. A new scheme didn't fit Renfrow after he was productive for the Raiders in his first three seasons under Jon Gruden; he tallied 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021, earning a Pro Bowl appearance.

Renfrow was productive and counted on by the Raiders. He had sure hands, and teammates started calling him "Third-and-Renfrow" when he came up big when the Raiders needed a first down to continue the drive. His career took a turn against the Arizona Cardinals when his fumble led to a Cardinals touchdown in a 29-23 loss. He missed the two following games because of a concussion and didn't top 100 yards receiving again.

It is unknown how general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll view Renfrow, but the Raiders are in need of wide receivers, as they only have returning starters Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker. When Renfrow played for the Raiders, he was merely a slot receiver, a role that is now occupied by Tucker, but one can wonder if having two pure slot receivers on the roster will benefit quarterback Geno Smith. 

Perhaps Renfrow is rejuvenated and ready to restart his NFL career. Raiders fans hopes it is with his old team.