Raiders rookie Malik Benson prepares for potential specialized role in Week 1

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 1:01 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Raiders rookie Malik Benson prepares for potential specialized role in Week 1
Summary

Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Malik Benson is positioned to compete for a depth role as the team heads into its Week 1 opener against the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Klint Kubiak is expected to center the offense around quarterback Kirk Cousins, alongside focal points Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty. Benson, a sixth-round draft pick out of Oregon, recorded three receptions for 44 yards during the preseason. While Tre Tucker and Jalen Nailor enter the season as the starting wide receivers, Benson remains in competition with Jack Bech for additional snaps. Kubiak previously utilized rotational wideouts during his time as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator, providing a potential template for Benson's usage in the Las Vegas passing attack.

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Key Details
  • Malik Benson joined the Raiders as a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
  • Benson recorded 719 yards and averaged 16.7 yards per catch at Oregon last season.
  • The rookie wide receiver ran a 4.37 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.
  • Tre Tucker and Jalen Nailor are listed as the current starting wide receivers.
  • The Raiders open the 2026 regular season against the Miami Dolphins.
Latest Updates
  • 1:01 PMYahoo SportsCan Raiders WR Malik Benson play a take-the-top-off role as a rookie?
What they're saying
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Can Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Malik Benson play a take-the-top-off role as a rookie for Klint Kubiak?

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