Raiders Look to Strengthen Defensive Backfield Through Upcoming NFL Draft
The Las Vegas Raiders are focusing on building a more formidable defense for the 2025 NFL season, with reports indicating that the team plans to solidify the backend of its defense by selecting key players in the upcoming NFL Draft. This strategic move comes as the team looks to continue improving its roster and address some glaring weaknesses that have hindered them in past seasons.
Understanding the Need for a Stronger Defensive Backfield
For several seasons, the Raiders’ defense has been a work in progress. Despite showcasing a powerful defensive front with capable pass rushers and a solid linebacking core, the team has struggled with its secondary. Opponents have often exposed vulnerabilities in the Raiders’ defensive backfield, particularly in the passing game. Whether it’s the lack of playmaking ability in the safety position or the inconsistencies at cornerback, the backend of the defense has left much to be desired.
Over the years, the Raiders have drafted a few promising young players in the secondary, but many of them have yet to meet expectations, whether due to injuries, developmental issues, or just the need for more experience. The inability to consistently shut down opposing passing attacks has been a crucial factor in the team’s inability to make a deep playoff run.
The organization has made it clear that it is determined to change that narrative. Through a combination of free-agent signings and, more importantly, the upcoming NFL Draft, the Raiders are focusing their attention on the defensive backfield. With some big decisions to be made in the draft, it seems likely the team will prioritize selecting players who can make an immediate impact.
Key Areas of Focus for the Raiders’ Defense
As the Raiders eye the 2025 draft, several positions in the secondary are in urgent need of reinforcements. These include both cornerbacks and safeties, with the Raiders needing to find players who not only bring depth to the unit but can also start right away.
Cornerbacks
Cornerback remains one of the most important positions that the Raiders need to address. In recent seasons, the Raiders have struggled with consistent coverage on the outside. The lack of shutdown cornerbacks has led to significant yardage being gained against the team, and often, it results in big plays, particularly in crucial moments.
The Raiders have a few solid players at cornerback, but the team lacks the elite talent needed to compete against top-tier quarterbacks and wide receivers. It is likely that the Raiders will target top cornerback prospects in the first or second rounds of the draft. These cornerbacks could not only provide depth but also potentially start immediately, offering much-needed improvement on the perimeter.
The 2025 draft class is expected to feature several talented cornerbacks who could fit the Raiders’ defensive schemes. With a high draft pick, the Raiders will have the opportunity to land a cornerback who can help neutralize some of the most potent passing attacks in the league.
Safeties
In addition to cornerbacks, the Raiders’ safety position has also been a focal point of criticism. While the team has some young players who have shown promise, there have been concerns over the ability to cover deep routes, create turnovers, and provide strong run support. The Raiders are seeking a safety who can provide a presence in the deep secondary and help in coverage while also contributing to stopping the run.
The safety position is incredibly important in today’s NFL, where offenses often look to attack deep downfield. Having a reliable safety who can roam the back end of the defense, read the quarterback’s eyes, and make critical plays is essential. With the right pick, the Raiders could land a safety who is capable of doing all of that and more, providing the team with a more well-rounded secondary.
In this year’s draft, there are several talented safeties who could fit the mold of what the Raiders are looking for, from hard-hitting players who are excellent in run support to ball-hawking safeties who can make plays in the air. With this need being so crucial, the Raiders are expected to explore the safety prospects closely and potentially select a player who can contribute early in his career.
The Raiders’ Draft Strategy
Given the Raiders’ current position and the needs of their team, the draft will be essential in determining their future. Las Vegas has a unique opportunity to use their draft picks wisely to address their defensive shortcomings. With multiple picks in the early rounds, the Raiders are poised to have a significant impact on their defensive roster.
The front office, led by General Manager Dave Ziegler and Head Coach Josh McDaniels, has already emphasized the importance of making smart decisions in the draft. Ziegler has been vocal about wanting to build a team that can compete for championships, and this upcoming draft will be pivotal in helping him achieve that goal.
Given the importance of the defensive backfield, it is highly likely that the Raiders will use one of their early draft picks on a player from the secondary. While they will undoubtedly consider other positions, such as defensive line and linebacker, strengthening the secondary is the priority.
The Raiders’ draft strategy will likely involve looking at prospects who have demonstrated high-level athleticism, good instincts, and the ability to play in various defensive schemes. The team could also focus on players who are versatile enough to contribute in multiple roles, whether it’s as a cornerback or a safety, depending on where the Raiders feel the most immediate need lies.
Possible Draft Targets
As the Raiders look to make an impact on the backend of their defense, there are several draft prospects who could be high on their radar. Some of the top cornerbacks and safeties in the 2025 NFL Draft include:
1. CB – Christian Gonzalez (Oregon)
Gonzalez is considered one of the top cornerbacks in the upcoming draft class. Known for his excellent coverage skills, athleticism, and ability to compete against top-tier wide receivers, Gonzalez would be a strong addition to the Raiders’ secondary. His size and speed make him a great fit for the Raiders’ defense, which requires players who can match up with the most dangerous wideouts in the league.
2. CB – Joey Porter Jr. (Penn State)
Porter is another cornerback who could make an immediate impact in the NFL. His physical play style and ability to shut down wide receivers make him a prime target for the Raiders. With his experience in a pro-style defense at Penn State, Porter is ready for the NFL and could step in as a day-one starter.
3. S – Antonio Johnson (Texas A&M)
Johnson is one of the top safeties in this year’s draft, with an excellent blend of size, speed, and playmaking ability. His ability to cover a lot of ground in the secondary and play both the run and pass effectively makes him a desirable target for the Raiders, who need a safety with his skill set to improve their defense.
4. S – Brian Branch (Alabama)
Branch is another talented safety who could be on the Raiders’ radar. Known for his versatility and intelligence on the field, Branch is capable of playing both as a deep safety and in the box. His instincts and ability to create turnovers would be valuable for the Raiders as they look to enhance their defense.
What This Means for the Raiders’ Future
By solidifying the backend of their defense, the Raiders are positioning themselves for future success. A stronger secondary will make the team much more competitive in the AFC West, where explosive offenses such as the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers pose constant challenges. With the right additions to the secondary, the Raiders could take a major step toward improving their defensive consistency and their overall chances of making a deep playoff run.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Raiders to see how they approach their defense-building strategy. With the secondary in need of major upgrades, the team’s decision-making process in the draft could determine their success for years to come. Fans in Las Vegas are hopeful that the front office will make the right moves to bolster the defensive backfield, allowing the Raiders to compete at the highest level.
In conclusion, the Las Vegas Raiders are poised to make significant strides toward building a championship-caliber defense through the 2025 NFL Draft. By prioritizing the backend of their defense, particularly the cornerback and safety positions, the Raiders can set themselves up for success in both the short and long term. With an exciting draft ahead, the team is eager to transform their defense and take the next step toward becoming a playoff contender in the AFC.
