It might be a new week, but it’s the same story for the Las Vegas Raiders throughout training camp: Defense, defense, defense.
Last week, defensive back Jakorian Bennett built on his superb minicamp by starting off strong in training camp. This week, rookie safety Trey Taylor and veteran cornerback Nate Hobbs both made their presence known on Monday.
Taylor, who tasted momentary internet fame for the Patrick Mahomes puppet last week – which he was given by a fan – reminded everyone why he was the 2023 Jim Thorpe Award winner. During 7-on-7 drills, Taylor snatched a bobbled ball out of the air and took it the other way. This marked Monday’s lone interception.
But what else should you expect from the cousin of Hall of Fame safety Ed Reed?
Taylor’s interception came on a pass from Anthony Brown. Brown was a standout in minicamp and has continued his excellent play into training camp. Even the interception came on a well-placed pass from the 26-year-old that wasn’t hauled in.
Although the rookie scored the only interception of the day, he wasn’t the only defensive back who impressed.
Nate Hobbs breaks up multiple passes during Raiders’ Monday practice
Hobbs primarily played in the slot during his rookie season, but defensive coordinator Patrick Graham tested the 25-year-old’s versatility by throwing him out-wide last year. That experiment has continued through this year’s training camp as Hobbs has spent time both inside and outside.
On Monday, Hobbs made it tough for everyone he covered regardless of where he was on the field.
The Illinois alum was responsible for breaking up multiple passes as he enforced his physicality on his assignment. That’s the way he’s always played the game, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Any time I get to go out there and be physical, and be me, I’m going to take that chance,” Hobbs said afterwards.
But Hobbs wasn’t happy with the multiple batted down passes he tallied. He knows the difference between a broken up pass and an interception, and he knows he needs to secure more turnovers for his team.
“You said batted the ball down.. we don’t need that,” Hobbs noted in response to a question about his broken up passes. “I dropped a pick across the middle. That’s game changing plays, not only for me but for us as a team, so we’re not happy with it – deflections and pass breakups, and I know I speak for the defense when I say that too.”
Throughout three seasons, Hobbs has totaled two interceptions. It’s an area he wants to improve as he understands the importance of giving your offense an extra possession.
Hopefully, Hobbs will continue taking steps in the right direction in that department as camp rolls on.
*Top Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images
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