Late last week, Las Vegas Raiders defensive back Nate Hobbs revealed he had played with broken bones in his hand against the Kansas City Chiefs. It was a major development when you take into account his struggles in that game. Being a physical press corner, playing with such an ailment hinders your game. Well, in another bit of breaking Raiders news, the team has decided to place Hobbs on injured reserve, meaning he’ll miss a minimum of four games.
For the Raiders, it’s a major loss when you consider how Hobbs was performing this season. It seems that Las Vegas simply can’t catch a break with regard to their secondary. You could argue that this unit is hanging on by a thread at this point. Statistically, the Raiders’ pass defense hasn’t been exemplary. They’re currently ranked 15th in terms of passing yards allowed (1,280) and 27th in passing touchdowns surrendered (11). Nevertheless, Hobbs was having a notable run this season before getting injured. According to Pro Football Focus, Hobbs has earned an 83.0 grade in run defense, 78.2 in pass rush (1 sack), and a 67.0 coverage grade.
Breaking Raiders News: Las Vegas will be without Nate Hobbs
As it was, the Raiders were short-handed with Anthony Averett’s injury. Now, defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will need to gameplan around Rock Ya-Sin, Amik Robertson, and Sam Webb. Expect the Raiders to make some corresponding moves to help bring in depth from the practice squad, perhaps sign a veteran for this short-term period. Regardless, Hobbs is a talent that can’t be replaced outright at this point of the season. In many ways, it’s better to keep Hobbs off the field and give him plenty of time to heal. His physical style of play requires him to be 100 percent in terms of what he can do with his body at the line of scrimmage. Trotting out a banged-up Hobbs could’ve been disastrous. He’s far too important for the Raiders’ future.
*Top Photo: Heidi Fang/Las Vegas Review-Journal