Raiders GM Mike Mayock admits he was 'disappointed' by team's rookies this season

For the fourth year in a row, the Las Vegas Raiders missed the postseason, and while there is plenty of blame to go around, general manager Mike Mayock says he was underwhelmed by the team's rookie class and hopes to see their on-field production improve next season. 

"I was disappointed in the productivity of our rookies, I'll be the first person to admit that," Mayock told the team's official website. "You can make excuses, you can have a conversation why."

Arguably the most disappointing of the bunch was Henry Ruggs, who was the first receiver taken in the draft when the Raiders selected him with the 12th pick. Mayock said that was "not disappointed" in the first-year receiver but acknowledged that he "has to get better" and "has to get stronger." Ruggs started 12 games last season, finishing the year with 26 receptions for 452 yards and two touchdowns.

Mayock also discussed Damon Arnette, the Raiders' other first-round pick, saying that "he's got to take care of business in the offseason." Mayock believes that Arnette would benefit from focusing on "[n]utrition, strength coach, consistency of a day-to-day program."

The rest of the team's rookie class made little to no impact on the field this season. Running back Lynn Bowden was traded to the Dolphins, while receiver Bryan Edwards, linebacker Tanner Muse, guard John Simpson and cornerback Amik Robertson all failed to make an impact with their limited playing time. If the Raiders are going to make the postseason for the first time in head coach Jon Gruden's tenure, it will be important for this rookie class to step up in Year 2.