Though the Las Vegas Raiders have displayed a top-rated defense since the Antonio Pierce era, the cornerback spot has still been a question mark. A pro bowl cornerback has not been a part of the Raiders roster since 2010 with Nnamdi Asomugha. Head coach announced during the NFL combine that he was looking for a top tier cornerback.
Raiders coach Antonio Pierce talks about the upcoming season at the NFL scouting combine: https://t.co/5CmNdUJA4m #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/iTWjIbx5OH
— Vegas Nation (@VegasNation) February 29, 2024
Passing in the Draft
As the draft progressed, every cornerback was available for the Raiders to sign. Instead of drafting one of the top cornerbacks, Las Vegas decided to add more offensive talent with Brock Bowers.
Top cornerbacks such as Terrion Arnold and Quinyon Mitchell were not drafted until the 21st pick. Additionally, in the second and third round Vegas drafted offensive line talent.
You shall not pass ????#RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/jIvRSSAQKK
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) April 28, 2024
In the fourth round, Decamerion Richardson was drafted coming from Mississippi State. Also in seventh round, they invested into the cornerback position with M.J. Devonshire.
Current Depth Chart
Jack Jones and Nate Hobbs are the only returning starters at the position with Amik Robertson signing to the Detroit Lions. Brandon Facyson started for the club in 2020 but has suffered many injuries that have held back his potential.
Sam Webb, undrafted free agent has been on the roster since 2022. Despite being on the roster, he has not seen consistent playing time during regular season games.
Free Agent Cornerbacks
Las Vegas still has many options to still address the position. There are veteran free agent cornerbacks that have the capability to start alongside Jones and Hobbs.
Adoree Jackson, 28 is a versatile athlete who can also play as a punt returner. He played for the New York Giants in 2021 with current Raiders defensive coordinator, Patrick Graham.
Stephon Gilmore, 33 is a decorated player and former defensive player of the year. Adding Gilmore could bring along a mentor for younger players along with a starter.
Xavien Howard, 30 has been a consistent player with playmaking ability. Howard had a season with double digit interceptions in 2020.
Raiders can still sign any of these players with the salary cap space they currently have. They also have the option to allow a young player to step up.
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Trevis Dampier Jr is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X @tre
