The Las Vegas Raiders have opened the practice window for receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr., who has been on injured reserve since the start of the season. This development comes as the Raiders face a shortage of healthy receivers, with Jack Bech also on injured reserve and Jalen Nailor not yet cleared to practice following a concussion sustained in Week 4.
Thornton has 21 days to demonstrate his readiness in practice before the team decides whether to activate him to the active roster. Although he has returned to practice, this does not guarantee his availability for the upcoming game against the New England Patriots.
Coach Klint Kubiak is looking for additional options in the passing game, especially as the team seeks more production from its wide receivers to support tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer, as well as running back Ashton Jeanty. Thornton's college performance at Tennessee, where he recorded 26 receptions for 661 yards and six touchdowns in his final season, highlights his potential as a big-play threat.
However, Thornton must now adapt to the physical demands of practice, execute his assignments, and develop timing with quarterback Kirk Cousins to earn significant playing time. The Raiders have a limited depth chart, which may provide Thornton with an opportunity to contribute sooner rather than later, given the current injuries within the receiving corps.