Raiders' Sixth-Round Rookie Malik Benson Earns Valuable Reps in First NFL Training Camp
After a mixed college career, Raiders sixth-round rookie wide receiver Malik Benson is proving his worth during the team's first training camp. Head coach Klint Kubiak expressed optimism about Benson’s performance, stating that he has jumped into working with the first-string offense, despite coming from junior college.
Benson’s journey began at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas before he transferred to Alabama and Florida State, only to finish his career at Oregon. Despite catching 81 passes for 1,192 yards and eight touchdowns over three years of NCAA play, his production never quite matched his expected talent level.
“Time on task helps everybody get better,” Kubiak noted, adding that Benson has earned his way into first-string reps. However, he emphasized the importance of remaining humble and hungry for more improvement.
Rookie Star Potential?
Malik Benson could be just a sixth-round pick away from making an impact as a rookie this season. His ability to build rapport with offensive teammates, such as fellow rookie Fernando Mendoza, is promising, and his involvement in the first-string offense suggests he might have more of a role than expected.
Talent Overlooked?
At Hutchinson Community College, Benson showed potential but underperformed at Alabama. His transfer to Florida State for one year, followed by another stint at Oregon, indicates a search for the perfect fit. Despite this pattern, he now stands out as a capable receiver in Kubiak’s eyes.
Special Teams Contributions
Beyond his potential impact on the passing game, Benson could also contribute to the Raiders’ special teams units, potentially returning kickoffs and punts. This multifaceted role adds to the chances of him leaving an impression in his rookie year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Malik Benson performing compared to expectations?
Benson has exceeded initial expectations by earning first-team offensive reps, something not common for a sixth-round pick. His ability to connect with teammates and perform at this level is noteworthy.
Does he have any chances of being an impact player in his rookie season?
With the Raiders putting him through first-string drills, Benson could very well surprise many by contributing early on. His work ethic and current performance suggest potential for a strong rookie year despite coming from college under expectations.