The Raiders were already embroiled in early-season turmoil when star receiver Davante Adams went down with a hamstring injury during Thursday's practice.
Adams will be sidelined immediately from Sunday's game against the Browns, and the six-time Pro Bowler is considered “week-to-week.” ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The loss of Adams, who had at least 100 receptions in five of the last six NFL seasons, comes at a tumultuous time for Las Vegas coach Antonio Pierce. The Raiders reportedly considered changing quarterbacks after last week's 36-22 loss to the Panthers, but the Raiders are sticking with veteran Gardner Minshew over Aidan O'Connell for now.
“There were definitely individuals who made business decisions, and we're going to continue to make business decisions,” Pierce said after last week's home loss.
The Raiders declined trade offers in the offseason for Adams, who played alongside Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers with the Packers early in his career.
The Raiders will also be without three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby (ankle) on Sunday.
Without Adams, the Raiders will have to rely on veteran receiver Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight end Brock Bowers in the passing game against Cleveland. Adams and Bowers are tied for the team lead with 18 receptions each in the Raiders' 1-2 start.
“Overall, no one needs to be Davante Adams,” Pierce said Friday. “We don't need Davante anymore. There's only one, right? We just need the best version of Jakobi Meyers.
“We'll see what happens on Sunday, but we really feel that way.” [positive] We'll give them the last 12 hours to prepare for the game today and tomorrow. ”
Notably, Eagles receiver AJ Brown injured his hamstring in practice two days before the Week 2 game and will miss Sunday's game against the Buccaneers for the third consecutive game.
