Las Vegas Raiders defensive back Tre’von Moehrig recently reflected on his struggles and what he feels is still a learning progress for him.
The final second-round selection of the Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock era, Moehrig was an immediate starter as a rookie in 2021. In many ways, he was seen as one of the crown jewels of last year’s draft class. The other being Nate Hobbs, of course. The player chosen before him in the first round, Alex Leatherwood, isn’t even on the team anymore. As far as what he accomplished on the field last season, it was quite impressive. He recorded 39 solo tackles and one interception, but it was his 77.7 Pro Football Focus coverage grade that truly garnered him attention. Naturally, there were expectations for Moehrig this season. Many fans had hoped he would thrive under Patrick Graham. Instead, the opposite has been true.
Last year, there were definitely some red flags. He missed eight tackles by the season’s conclusion. In addition, Moehrig had given up almost 16 yards per reception (15.7) when targeted. Clearly, there was still room to improve, but it appeared Moehrig’s trajectory was certainly pointing upward. Fast forward to Week 8, and the sophomore has clearly hit a slump. Nevertheless, Moehrig remains patient, confident, and, more importantly, understands that things take time. It’s all a process.
Raiders: Moehrig is still attacking each day despite his struggles
Moehrig recently elaborated more on his struggles this season. Via Tashan Reed of The Athletic, Moehrig recognized that even though his rookie year was notable, this season is a different story, especially playing in a different role and system.
“Even if I had a great start (as a rookie) and all that kind of stuff, I’m still in the learning and growing process. For me, I think it’s just planning to attack each day that way no matter what the result is. Last year was a lot more of just I played my position in single-high and that was all I really did, but it’s more multiple this year so a lot more is asked of the safeties. We do a bunch of different things. Just like I said with the question before, I feel like just growing and learning each day is a part of trying to get better,” said Moehrig regarding his struggles and how he’s moving forward each week.
Needless to say, Moehrig’s lack of coverage skills are being spotlighted. It’s way too early to even think of him as a bust. There’s still plenty of Raiders football to be played, and let’s not forget, sophomore slumps are common in the NFL. Veteran safety Duron Harmon seems to be holding things down in the secondary. So, it’s not surprising that Moehrig came off the bench against the Houston Texans. Now, if that trend resumes and continues for more than a few games, more serious questions can be raised. Until then, let’s see if Moehrig can bounce back against a New Orleans Saints team that has some multifaceted weapons in Taysom Hill and Alvin Kamara.
*Top Photo: Steve Marcus/Las Vegas Sun
