Insider explains what is preventing Raiders from trading WR Hunter Renfrow

The Raiders want to trade wide receiver Hunter Renfrow before the deadline on Oct. 31, but a significant issue has detracted potential suitors.

"I can tell you the Raiders want to trade Hunter Renfrow," NFL insider Jordan Schultz said Tuesday in a video published on Bleacher Report's website. "I don't think Renfrow wants to be there either. The problem is he makes a lot of money."

Renfrow is in the final year of a two-year, $32M contract, which includes a potential out in 2024 ($5.508M in dead cap). 

The former Pro Bowler has not met expectations since signing his extension in 2022. Last season, he battled through injuries and logged a career-low 36 receptions in 10 games. This season, he only has six receptions on nine targets in six games.

Even if teams are desperate for a WR, they won't take a chance on a player who appears to be declining and is in the final year of his contract. 

"I don't know if the Raiders would take some of that salary themselves," said Schultz. "But as things stand right now, the reason Hunter Renfrow hasn't been traded isn't because teams don't really want him. The problem is finding teams that are willing to absorb his contract."

The Raiders could try to make amends with Renfrow. He should thrive under head coach Josh McDaniels. Slot WRs, such as Wes Welker and Julian Edelman, excelled while he served as New England Patriots offensive coordinator for 13 seasons. Yet that's unlikely since both parties want to move on.

Las Vegas should target Renfrow more over its next two games against the Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions. Showcasing him will increase his trade value and make teams more willing to absorb his contract.