The Las Vegas Raiders drafted Malik Benson in the 6th round of the NFL Draft. Usually, 6th-rounders have a tough time making the roster.
Training Camp
“I knew that no matter when I was going to get picked up, I was going to get an opportunity to show what I can do,” Benson said. “I got picked up by a great organization. So, each and every day, I just come with that chip on my shoulder to show everybody if you think I’m soft, then you’re going to have to come out here and find out.”
Benson has had an outstanding training camp and seems to be a shoo-in to make the roster. Benson has already developed chemistry with the Raiders’ No.1 draft pick quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Last year at Oregon, Benson caught 43 passes for 719 yards and six touchdowns. He also returned nine punts for 171 yards with a 17.9-yard average and one touchdown. With the Raiders lacking a proven receiver, Benson and his speed could be a vital piece of the Raiders’ offense this season.
What Benson Brings
The Raiders have plenty of receivers who can contribute. Benson would bring the speed to make them a serious threat. He could also help in the return game, where the Raiders have struggled for years. According to recent reports, Benson is also competing for opportunities as a punt and kickoff returner. His explosiveness gives Las Vegas another potential weapon on special teams.
In training camp, Benson has proven he can be more than just a serious threat, running good routes. He has also earned time with the first team. “I knew he had the skill set to (run crisp routes),” Raiders wide receiver coach Zach Azzanni said. “It just doesn’t always have to show up in college. Sometimes you just run real fast, which is what he can do. And then all the nuances in the game, that’s our job to teach him. … He’s got a long, long way to go, but I’m pleased with where he’s at because I knew he had the skill set to do it. Now he’s just got to be more consistent in doing it.”
Benson Motivated
In the Raiders preseason opener, Benson was targeted four times and caught two passes for 26 yards. If he continues making plays, develops a strong connection with Kirk Cousins and Mendoza, and earns a role on special teams, the sixth-round pick could quickly become one of the more important young pieces on the Raiders’ offense. Benson is definitely motivated to be all he can be.
“For sure (I’m motivated by being a sixth-round pick), but honestly, I feel like I’ve always kind of been at the bottom,” Benson said. “I started at junior college and things like that. So, it’s just another stepping stone that God’s showing me that — yeah, you’re sixth round, but if you just come out here and work hard and do what you got to do, none of that really matters once you get drafted.”
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