Welcome to another offseason edition of the Raider Ramble Roundtable, where some of our finest contributors and guests will bring you their thoughts on all the rumblings, rumors, stats, and Raiders news.
Today, our panel will be stating their case for who the Las Vegas Raiders should prioritize in NFL free agency. Let’s take a look at who could help the Silver and Black get over the hump and back into the playoffs.
Be sure to let us know your thoughts in your comment section down below!
So which free agent should the Raiders target?
@wolf2988, Anthony Harris
The defense needs help and Harris is a legit player. Has been consistent throughout his career and makes a lot of plays on the ball. Even though he did take a step back this year due to injuries, he is a player the Raiders should definitely look at and try and go after.
@sblack1984, Justin Simmons
The Raiders secondary is incredibly young and lacking specifically in the safety position. “Rookie” safety Abram made some hard hits but it didn’t make up for the blown coverages and penalties. Also, Erik Harris was a disaster. The Raiders need a veteran presence in the backfield to get Mullen/Arnette/Abram to reach their potential and it doesn’t hurt that Simmons had 70+ tackles and fice interceptions last season. It will be nearly impossible to lure him away from the rival Broncos.
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It appears that the defense should be the Raiders’ priority…
@blackman_dalton, Patrick Peterson
The Raiders got beat in coverage far too often last year. Mullen looks promising, but he could really use someone roughly equal to his ability opposite of him. Arnette has yet to prove he is that guy. He showed some flashes but got beat way too much last season.
Also, he had trouble staying healthy. Long term, he might be best suited inside anyway. In today’s NFL, you need at least three capable corners. The Raiders might have two at the moment. Adding a proven albeit aging commodity like Peterson would automatically make the secondary look borderline competent.
@stevenavalos18, John Johnson III
In the case Simmons chooses to stay in Denver, Johnson would be a pleasant option, as he should be a much cheaper option compared to other free agents. He’s got eight career picks to go along with 32 passes defensed. Johnson is more of a coverage safety which could allow Abram to play more to his comfort zone in the box. He may not be as experienced as other desired veterans but his impact can be quick and efficient.
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*Top Photo: Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports