NFL Oakland Raiders

Kenbrell Thompkins is a Worthless Waiver Claim for Oakland Raiders

Fresh Videos

By

Kenbrell Thompkins

Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

At this point in the season, the Oakland Raiders have nothing to lose. They’re already at 0-4 and have earned the title of “Worst Team in the NFL,” although some would argue that the Jacksonville Jaguars could stake a claim in it as well.

Still, despite the sense of hopelessness the Raiders have bestowed upon their fans so far in 2014, the team’s decision to claim Kenbrell Thompkins off of waivers on Monday makes little sense.

The former New England Patriots wide receiver has been an utter disappointment after he was built up as a diamond in the rough after going undrafted in 2013. He shined for the Patriots during the 2013 preseason, but rarely flashed during the regular season. After seemingly taking a step back in 2014, New England simply decided to sever ties.

Now with the Raiders, Thompkins will likely be nothing more than a bench warmer. Contrary to popular belief, Oakland has a decent group of wide receivers. James Jones is a reliable veteran option, Andre Holmes has emerged as a capable playmaker, Brice Butler offers some explosive athleticism and speed, and even Denarius Moore can be a difference-maker when he puts his mind to it.

So what’s the point of claiming Thompkins, who couldn’t even crack the Patriots’ wide receiver depth chart, which offers plenty of underwhelming talent? It’s not like the sophomore pass-catcher impressed during the Patriots’ Week 3 win over the Raiders – he managed one catch for 16 yards.

More than likely, the Raiders will bring on Thompkins, get a good look at his subpar ability during practice, and send him packing. They aren’t losing much by bringing him aboard, but it’s still a waste of time nonetheless. Call it kicking the tires if you’d like, but Thompkins won’t be worth the Raiders’ time when all is said and done.

Over the last few years, the Raiders have made their fair share of poor personnel decisions. Add claiming Thompkins to the list.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on