The Las Vegas Raiders made headlines once again on Monday with a significant change to their roster, particularly concerning the defense.
Before the Raiders face off against the Seahawks in their first preseason game, they have been increasing the tempo at practice. Pete Carroll will be returning to face the franchise he once won a championship with. Now that the pads are on, it is more clear which players are shining. Because of this, the starters are becoming more imminent.
Carroll has added outstanding talent to this roster and the competition is heating up. Position battles are occurring throughout the team, except for the quarterback position. NFL insider Ian Rapoport attended practice on Monday and was impressed by how Carroll constructed this team.
“It is really hard to imagine a better hire for the Las Vegas Raiders,” Rapoport said. “He is as good building a foundation as anyone.”
Could Jamal Adams end up starting for the Raiders?
After signing the veteran safety to a one-year contract, expectations were low. Last season was disappointing for the former All-Pro, who recorded only seven tackles in five games. However, the Raiders have offered him a chance to revive his career.
Receiving starter reps in practice undoubtedly ensures that Adams will secure a spot on the 53-man roster. This also suggests he has a genuine opportunity to compete for playing time throughout the season. He is an explosive player capable of blitzing with the best.
Darien Porter’s growth has likely led to the Jakorian Bennett trade…
Leading up to Monday, all of the reports show that Bennett was the odd man out in the cornerback room. Porter has exhibited a stellar knack for the ball. He has received many of the first-team reps in training camp. On the opposing side, No. 0 drastically dropped in rank in the secondary.
Despite being the best coverage cornerback last season, the Raiders decided to trade him for a young defensive tackle.
It appeared that the former University of Maryland defensive back would never earn a starting position under this coaching regime. Carroll and the rest of the staff prioritize length and height for cornerbacks, making a 5-foot-11 defensive back less than ideal. However, he is now poised for a fresh start with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Will the team add another safety? The aftermath of Lonnie Johnson Jr.’s injury…
In the mock game on Sunday, Lonnie Johnson Jr. suffered a broken fibula that will sideline him for most of the season. All of a sudden, the team is forced to play the younger players in a more prominent role.
Chris Smith is now playing the free safety role in specific defensive packages. It is important to highlight that Smith primarily participated in special teams during the 2024 season. The Georgia alum must elevate his performance this season to successfully assume this new role.
The injury to Johnson Jr. could necessitate that the team consider signing a free agent or pursuing a trade.
Related: Shedeur Sanders Trade Buzz Headlines NFL Training Camp Chatter
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