Amid all the buzz surrounding the Raiders’ offseason quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, it’s easy to miss the significant changes in their defense. They’ve made various additions through the draft and free agency, potentially bringing in up to six new starters, especially revitalizing their inside linebacker unit with youthful talent and playmaking potential.
Let’s take a moment to review the Raiders’ defensive depth chart post-offseason moves.
Defensive Line
Starters: DE Maxx Crosby, NT Adam Butler, DT Jonah Raul
Reserves: Thomas Booker, Tonka Hemingway, J.J. Peggs, Brandon Cleveland, Brodrick Martin, Treven Mahe, Raki Tashi, Gary Smith III
Notes: The Raiders are switching from a traditional 4-3 to a 3-4 scheme, which raises the stakes on player alignments and the nose tackle role. Crosby might shift from his previous setup and could potentially rush from a stand-up position. Raul has shown improvement since joining in 2024 and might be in line for a breakout season now that he’s in his third year. The depth added last season with Booker, Hemingway, Butler, and Cleveland could pay off.
Conclusion: While Crosby is a formidable force, the success of the defense hinges on younger players stepping up, particularly in controlling blockers and aiding both run defense and pass rush capabilities.
Linebackers
Starters: Quay Walker, Nakobe Dean, Kwity Paye, Malcolm Koonce
Reserves: Kaylon Crawford, Jafari Harvey, Brennan Jackson, Sian Sloan, Tommy Eichenberg, Segun Olubi, Cody Lindenberg, Xavian Slay Jr.
The additions of Walker and Dean via three-year contracts reflect the team’s urgency in revamping a struggling inside linebacker position. Both players are reaching their prime, and their presence is expected to make an immediate impact. Paye and Koonce will provide coverage on the edge in the new defensive alignment.
Cornerbacks
Starters: Eric Stokes, Darien Porter, Taron Johnson
Reserves: Jermod McCoy, Chigozie Anousiem, Greedy Vance, Hezekiah Mass, Decamelion Richardson, Caleb Offord
Notes: Stokes was acquired on a one-year deal last year and has surpassed expectations, particularly regarding his health and performance level. The Raiders recently extended his contract for three years. Johnson, obtained from the Bills, is set to take on a significant role as a slot cornerback.
Porter, drafted in the third round last year, showed potential as a rookie. He’ll challenge for a starting position alongside McCoy, a fourth-round pick this year. McCoy was initially projected as a top-15 pick but fell due to knee surgery, which could mean a big win for the Raiders if he stays fit. Richardson’s role this season will also be crucial as he competes for a roster spot.
Conclusion: Stokes and Johnson are likely solidified in their roles, but for the cornerback group to transform from a weakness into a strength, Porter or McCoy must excel in the perimeter spot opposite Stokes. The younger players will also need to step up quickly. If concerns arise during the offseason workouts, the team may look to reinforce this position.
Safeties
Starters: Jeremy Chin, Traydan Stokes
Reserves: Isaiah Paula-Mao, Tristin McCollum, Dalton Johnson, Terrell Edmunds, Tanner Wall, Devin Perkins
Notes: With Johnson in the slot, Chin can adopt a more conventional safety role, while Stokes, a rookie second-round pick from Arizona, adds versatility. Polamao, previously a two-season starter, could return as a rotational player in various defensive packages.
Conclusion: The Raiders prioritized safety during the draft with the selections of Stokes and Johnson, markedly enhancing the overall effectiveness of their secondary. Stokes shows the potential to become a pivotal player for years to come.
