Joe Hansley to sign with Oakland Raiders

After going undrafted, former CSU wide receiver Joe Hansley has agreed to terms with the Oakland Raiders, joining teammate Cory James who was selected by the Raiders in the sixth round of the NFL Draft Saturday. The four-year Ram starter announced the signing on Twitter Monday afternoon.

Thank you @RAIDERS for the opportunity 🙏🏼 you won't regret it

— Joe Hansley (@JoeHansley) May 2, 2016

This week, Hansley will be in Oakland working out with the team during their rookie mini-camp.

One of the most impactful wide receivers in CSU history, Hansley was a consistent factor in the CSU offense for three years under Jim McElwain, before finishing his senior campaign with Mike Bobo. Listed at 5-foot-10 and 180 lbs, Hansley lacks the size of a prototypical NFL wide receiver, but his competitiveness and work ethic to constantly improve could earn Hansley a roster spot this fall.

Congrats to @360SportsLLC_ client @JoeHansley WR/KR formerly of @CSUFootball as he joins the @RAIDERS pic.twitter.com/U1utyPdF93

— Evan Brennan (@EvanTheAgent) May 2, 2016

As a receiver, Hansley is a terrific route runner and showed soft hands in his time at CSU. The ability to move him inside or out gives him the ability to stay on the field in multiple packages. As a run-blocker Hansley is experienced and goes until the whistle.

Where Hansley could really make a name for himself is special teams. “Super Joe” is a dangerous return-man, which he showed off at Fresno State last season, when the crafty speedster enjoyed three returns for scores, (2 punts, 1 kickoff). If it weren’t for Hansley that day, there’s no way the Rams win the game. 

Hansley is one of eight Rams to have a shot at the next level this season, and the number has could continue to grow as DT Terry Jackson has a workout with the Arizona Cardinals this week.

Second-year Oakland head coach and former Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio has showed he still has some Colorado connections, selecting James in the draft, and signing former Valor Christian standout WR Max McCaffrey. If Hansley makes the team this fall, CSU fans would have an opportunity to see him up close and personal when the Raiders come to the Mile High City for a Week 17 New Years Day matchup.

Ram fans wish Hansley good luck as he pursues his NFL dreams!

More reading: Our interview with Joe Hansley from earlier this year.