The Raiders have all pros and pro bowlers across the roster. However, depth issues are everywhere for Las Vegas and might be too much to overcome. The regular season is now 17 games and every team must adjust. The Raiders depth is hurt by years of bad drafts and free agent signings. Each and every injury is sure to put even more pressure on an already thin roster. The development of the 2nd and 3rd string could be a huge key to the Raiders success this season.
OLB
The Raiders were already thin at LB and adding Kyler Fackrell to the reserve/injured list further thins out the position. The Raiders also lost Micah Kiser to an injury early in camp and have signed Curtis Bolton as a replacement option. The Raiders will run multiple fronts and coverages under new Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham. The Raiders will be looking for some edge rush help at the OLB position throughout camp and the preseason.
CB
The off-season brought new faces Anthony Avertt and Rock Ya Sin to help in the secondary. Returning is star nickel Corner Nate Hobbs. The injuries to former starter Trevon Mullen has hurt the depth this off-season. In a past heavy division the Raiders are going to need all the healthy bodies they can get in the secondary. The Raiders offense should provide a tough challenge in camp so new additions will get tested early and often. This could help the Raiders develop a CB or two quickly having to deal with Adams and Renfow at practice.
DT
With the addition of Jonathan Hankins and Bilal Nichols to the PUP list the Raiders started camp light at the position. Grahams D doesn’t use a lot of 4 man lines but it is in the playbook. Young rookies might not be ready to anchor a position quite yet so the return of Hankins and company is important. Training camp and preseason is an extremely important time for this position group. Who takes advantage of the opportunity at DT is a good storyline to follow.
Every team has roster issues so the Raiders aren’t the only team. However, expectations have been raised and the Raiders need to take the next step and win the division. Depth issues can sometimes be the difference in good or great teams. The Raiders also have a training camp and a preseason to complete. Every year guys surprise in camp and the Raiders need that this year. Las Vegas has a solid foundation and if they can strengthen their depth anything is possible for the Silver and Black in 2022 and beyond.