Jalen Nailor Week 1 Outlook - Dolphins at Raiders

By Derek Brown (FantasyPros), Sun, Sep 13th 2026, 12:44pm EDT

It wouldn't shock me at all if Jalen Nailor steps up as the clear number two option for the Raiders this season behind Brock Bowers through the air. Nailor isn't facing stiff competition from Tre Tucker, Jack Bech, and company. Yes, last year Nailor had only a 10.3% target share, 1.19 yards per route run, and a 10.8% first-read share. None of those metrics will or should get you excited, but when we dig deeper, his per-route numbers are QUITE INTERESTING. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, he was 33rd in separation and 51st in route win rate. As a perimeter receiver among the same sample, his numbers look even better (141 routes) as he was sixth-best in separation and 13th in route win rate. If you're struggling in a deep league and have to reach into the Raiders' passing attack for a Week 1 flex play, Nailor would be it for me. Last year, Miami allowed the ninth-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers. Chris Johnson is a talented rookie, but expecting him to be an immediate difference-maker for the Miami secondary is a lot to ask for a rookie. JuJu Brents and Jason Marshall Jr. flanking him don't frighten me at all.