LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Hunter Renfrow is making a determined bid to return to the NFL, and he’s starting with familiar territory. The former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver is reportedly visiting his old team on Friday, March 28, 2025, just two days after meeting with the Carolina Panthers. This could be the first step in a long-awaited comeback for the 29-year-old, who has been out of the league since 2024.
Renfrow, a fifth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, quickly became a vital asset for the Raiders. In the 2021 season, he showcased his skills by catching 103 passes for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection and a two-year contract extension. However, his subsequent seasons have been marred by injuries and decreased production. In 2022, a concussion limited him to just 10 games, and while he played all 17 games in 2023, his numbers plummeted to only 25 receptions for 255 yards.
After being released by the Raiders in March 2024, Renfrow found himself without a team for the entire 2024 season. Yet, he remains optimistic about reigniting his career. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Renfrow’s visit with the Raiders on Friday is a significant opportunity for him to prove he still has what it takes to compete at a high level.
“After not playing in the 2024 season, Renfrow is eager to make a comeback,” Rapoport stated, highlighting the urgency of Renfrow’s situation. “He’s looking to restart his career and is meeting with teams to explore his options.”
Renfrow’s journey has not been easy. Following his breakout season in 2021, he faced challenges that would test any athlete. In 2022, he missed five consecutive games due to a concussion, which hindered his ability to regain his form. Despite being on the field in 2023, the arrival of Jakobi Meyers during free agency limited Renfrow's role within the Raiders' offense, leading to his release.
In total, Renfrow played 73 games for the Raiders, accumulating 269 receptions for 2,884 yards and 17 touchdowns. His ability to run quick-hitting routes made him a reliable slot receiver, a role that many teams could benefit from in the upcoming season, provided he can demonstrate he’s back to full health.
As the NFL landscape evolves, Renfrow’s experience and skill set could prove invaluable. He’s not just looking to fill a roster spot; he aims to contribute significantly to whichever team he joins. His visit with the Panthers on March 26, 2025, was part of this strategy, as teams are always on the lookout for players who can make an immediate impact.
“He’s a player who knows how to get open and can be a safety valve for quarterbacks,” a source close to the situation remarked. “If he’s healthy, he can still play at a high level.”
With the Raiders and Panthers both showing interest, Renfrow’s next steps are crucial. The NFL offseason is a time of change, and for Renfrow, it’s a chance to reclaim his place in the league. His performance during these visits could determine his future in the NFL.
Fans of the Raiders remember Renfrow’s contributions fondly, especially his remarkable 2021 season, where he emerged as a top target and helped lead the Raiders to the postseason. His quick footwork and precise route-running made him a favorite among quarterbacks and fans alike.
Now, as he seeks to return to the team that drafted him, the stakes are high. Renfrow’s journey back to the NFL is a testament to his resilience and determination. He’s not just hoping to rejoin the league; he’s aiming to prove he can still be a game-changer.
As the NFL draft approaches and teams finalize their rosters, Renfrow’s visit with the Raiders could be pivotal. If he can showcase his abilities and demonstrate he’s fully recovered from past injuries, he may secure a place on the roster and a chance to continue his football career.
In a league that often prioritizes youth and speed, Renfrow’s experience could provide a valuable asset for teams looking to balance their rosters with seasoned players. His story is a reminder that, in professional sports, the journey is often as important as the destination.
As the day unfolds and Renfrow meets with the Raiders, all eyes will be on him. Will he impress the coaching staff and secure a contract? Or will he find himself still searching for a team as the season approaches? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Hunter Renfrow is not ready to hang up his cleats just yet.
In the world of professional football, comebacks are not uncommon, and Renfrow’s determination could very well lead him back to the gridiron. With the right opportunity, he could once again become a key player in the NFL, demonstrating that hard work and perseverance can pay off.
As fans and analysts alike watch this developing story, the excitement surrounding Hunter Renfrow’s potential return to the NFL continues to build. Will he find a new home with the Raiders, or will another team take a chance on his talent? The coming days will be crucial for Renfrow as he seeks to turn his aspirations into reality.
