Even with Taiwan Jones returning to health, Raiders needed some help in the return game. They brought in some reinforcement, signing receiver and return specialist Walter Powell off the Buffalo Bills practice squad on Friday morning.
His agents reported the news on Twitter.
A sixth-round pick in 2014, Powell averaged 25.8 yards per kickoff return and 19.7 yards per punt return this preseason. He also returned a punt 54 yards for a touchdown.
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[BAIR: Raiders expecting 'big contributors' from 2015 draft class]
He should give some instant punch to the return game, which was stuck in neutral most of the year. Impact defensive back TJ Carrie got hurt returning punts, and it was risky replacing him with No. 1 receiver Amari Cooper.
Roy Helu returned kickoffs for Jones, who has also been subject to injury and is helpful on offense. It’s possible Powell could return kickoffs as well.
The Murray State alum has bounced around over the last season-plus, but will have a chance to make an impact with on the Raiders’ active roster.
NFL
The Raiders had a roster spot open after waiving safety Keenan Lambert on Thursday.