The Athletic's Tashan Reed reports that Las Vegas Raiders rookie sixth-rounder Tommy Mellott got significant action at slot receiver during an OTA practice this week. The quarterback-turned-receiver made cornerback Darnay Holmes fall on an in-and-out route on one rep before catching a pass from quarterback Geno Smith and turning upfield. Receiver Tre Tucker made the most impressive play of the day on a deep route where he got open over the top of the safety for a diving catch. Tucker started most of last year, but his role could be in jeopardy in 2025 after the Raiders drafted Dont'e Thornton and Jack Bech. Mellott is fast and athletic at 6-foot, 208 pounds but will most likely serve in a depth role at wideout in his first year in the NFL while also contributing as a return option on special teams.
May 23, 2025 12:19 PM EST
The Las Vegas Raiders selected Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott in the sixth round of this year's NFL draft, but he's expected to play multiple positions in his rookie year, including wide receiver and running back. "Tommy Mellott is Julian Edelman," one general manager said. The Las Vegas Review-Journal's Vincent Bonsignore writes that the Raiders want to transform Mellott into a player that can help them in different ways. As well as working on offense, he could be used on punt and kickoff returns and coverage. Mellott caught the attention of NFL scouts and coaches by posting a 4.39-second 40-yard dash, a 41-inch vertical and a 10-foot, four-inch broad jump at his Pro Day. New offensive coordinator Chip Kelly could get creative with how they use Mellott, but it's unlikely that he'll see enough time on the field to become a fantasy asset in 2025.
May 6, 2025 1:23 PM EST