NAPA – The Raiders value Gabe Holmes, a large versatile player the team believes could have a bright future. He spent most of last year on the practice squad, but was promoted to the 53-man roster to avoid him getting poached by another team.
He had a track on a roster spot this camp until suffering a significant ankle injury in Friday’s 31-10 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
Head coach Jack Del Rio said Monday that Holmes suffered a severe high ankle sprain and broke a small bone in that area, and that he anticipates placing the second-year pro on injured reserve. Teams don't have to designate a player to return when the go on IR, though they can bring one player back per season.
Holmes was fighting for the No. 3 tight end spot, a position making frequent contributions on offense and special teams.
The Raiders have solid depth at tight end, with experienced fourth-year veteran Mychal Rivera available behind Clive Walford and Lee Smith.
