Safety Tyrann Mathieu, whom the Las Vegas Raiders were waiting to sign, decided he would be signing with the New Orleans Saints, per Adam Schefter. The team was looking for extra help in the backfield, so who else could they bring in? What about Baltimore Ravens safety Chuck Clark?
Could the Raiders bring in another safety?
The Raiders drafted an emerging safety talent in Trevon Moehrig in the 2021 draft. Some support could be helpful with Johnathan Abram struggling in coverage. Along with fellow 2019 first-round picks Josh Jacobs and Clelin Ferrell, the team announced that they would not pick up his fifth-year option. He allowed 31 receptions in pass coverage per Pro Football Focus, surrendering a total of two touchdowns via the air.
One name has emerged as a potential suitor, with Clark being mentioned in a possible release or trade. The Ravens drafted safety Kyle Hamilton in the first round this past weekend. Drafting Hamilton would be “why” the team would be looking to part ways with Clark now.
Now, the question is, is Clark worth a trade or signing?
If the Raiders see a fit with Clark and a player that can beat Abram for a starting role, they would definitely do it. The 27-year-old Clark came out of his sixth season, finishing with 80 combined tackles and two interceptions, per Pro Football Reference.
He would come to a team with some familiarity. New senior defensive assistant Rob Ryan was the inside linebacker coach during the 2021 season for the Ravens.
Clark is still under contract through the next two seasons and has a salary cap hit of $4.6 million next season. Whether the Raiders decide to trade for Clark or sign him on a release, they will most likely do so after June 1st. That is when money from the recently released Cory Littleton and Carl Nassib comes off the books.
Currently, the Raiders don’t seem too distressed about trying to find an Abram replacement just yet.
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*Top Photo: Joey Pulone/Baltimore Ravens