Joe Hansley impressing early on at Raiders OTAs

Joe Hansley might not have heard his name called at the recent NFL Draft, but the former Colorado State wide receiver is making a name for himself since signing with the Raiders as an UDFA. Hansley always found a way to make an impact for the Rams, both as a receiver and as a return man.

The crafty wideout from Highlands Ranch was the MVP of Wednesday’s team session according to the Raiders official website. Starting QB Derek Carr praised the former Ram for his route running abilities and sure hands, which was a staple of Hansley’s collegiate career.

A big day from WR @JoeHansley, a challenge to the RBs, and more.

Practice Notes: https://t.co/qPKwHcXyR3 pic.twitter.com/XLV3pqsREy

— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) June 2, 2016

Hansley made a variety of plays during Wednesday’s practice, catching balls out of the slot and out wide. Although the Raiders top four spots on the depth chart for wide receiver are currently in place, Raiders team writer Eddie Paskal noted that Hansley’s versatility improves his chances of earning a roster spot this season.

“Listed at 5’9”, Hansley is no doubt on the smaller side for an NFL wide receiver,” Paskal said. “But he’s shown throughout OTAs that he has the quickness and versatility to make up for what he might lack in size.”

No draft expert in the world gave Hansley a legitimate shot at making an NFL roster this season, but he has an opportunity to prove the world wrong. Hansley is a freak athlete and is an example of how hard work and dedication to detail can help overcome a lack of size.

Have A Day, @JoeHansley !#Raiders and @derekcarrqb showing JoJo some love.#OTAs | https://t.co/AijuTyy4Ck pic.twitter.com/7mUadf6zHQ

— Stan (@Stanton_G) June 2, 2016

“Super Joe” is doing all the right things early on and will need to continue to do so if he is going to make the 53-man roster this fall. Other former CSU standouts Shaquil Barrett and Kapri Bibbs went undrafted and worked their way onto the Denver Broncos practice squad in 2014.

Barrett has now developed into an impact pass-rusher for the Denver defense and Bibbs has received a lot of praise this offseason for his improvements. Hansley has a chance to make a similar impact in Oakland and potentially earn a spot on the practice squad or active roster, either with the Raiders or somewhere else.