The Las Vegas Raiders have recently looked to Alabama’s football program for possible franchise pillars, using first-round picks on Alex Leatherwood, Henry Ruggs, Josh Jacobs, Amari Cooper, and Rolando McClain during the Nick Saban era. The Raiders may once again go to Tuscaloosa with their first-round choice as they try to improve their defense.
The Raiders promoted Antonio Pierce from linebackers coach to head coach, and given Pierce’s defensive history, the Raiders are likely to focus on that side of the ball this summer. The largest need for the Raiders, who will choose 13th in this year’s NFL Draft, is cornerback, as the team has relied largely on late-round draft picks and free agents to fill the position.

What’s the main reason the Raiders are looking to add a cornerback in the NFL Draft? The Raiders compete in the same division as the Chiefs, Chargers, and Broncos, which means they have to face two top-ten quarterbacks with outstanding weapons twice a year. The Chiefs have Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Rashee Rice, the Chargers have Justin Herbert, Mike Williams, and Keenan Allen, and the Broncos have quarterback issues, but the trio of Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, and Marvin Mims will cause havoc for opposing defenses.

Patrick Graham, the Raiders’ defensive coordinator, has a track record of constructing strong pass defenses, but he also requires excellent cornerbacks to make the system work effectively. Graham’s pass defense was fourth in the NFL in 2021, allowing quarterbacks to average only 225.8 yards per game. Graham’s Giants defenses, however, had two of the league’s best cornerbacks, James Bradberry and Adoree Jackson.