Releasing Jack Jones has made the Las Vegas Raiders' already big need for a cornerback even bigger. Now, they could take two CBs in the 2025 NFL Draft, and maybe one of those guys could come on Day 1 or early Day 2.
So, just to do their due diligence, the Raiders are checking out some of the best cornerbacks in the draft. They've already let it be known that they're meeting with Will Johnson, the Michigan cornerback, as well as a few others. Now, they will be meeting with a guy who is still pretty raw, but man, does he have some insane potential.
Now, don't get it twisted, he could be a starter in year one as a rookie, as he is good enough to play right away. But, there will be some learning curves. In the end, it would end up being a huge pick for the Raiders, if they went that route, selecting a guy that could change the future of their defense.
Raiders set to meet with CB Maxwell Hairston
Maxwell Hairston, a cornerback from Kentucky, had a breakout year in 2023 as a starter, recording five interceptions—including two returned for touchdowns against Vanderbilt—and 67 tackles over 13 games, earning Second-Team All-SEC honors. In 2024, a shoulder injury sidelined him for part of the season, limiting him to seven games, but he still managed a pick-six against Ohio and again made Second-Team All-SEC, finishing his college career with three pick-sixes.
He declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, where he’s projected as a first or second-round pick. Luckily, the Raiders are in the market on both days. And, they are set to meet with him this week.
At 5'11" and 186 pounds, Hairston impressed at the 2025 NFL Combine with a 4.29-second 40-yard dash and a 39.5-inch vertical, showcasing the speed and athleticism that should translate well to the NFL. However, his slight frame and tackling issues post-injury raise concerns, though adding muscle could help him become a reliable nickel or outside corner.
Think about the speed and youth that the Raiders already have in Jakorian Bennett, who took a massive step forward last season before he got injured. Imagine that speed and Hairston's speed on the outside. The duo would be pretty nice when you talk about the future of the defense.
But, as we all know, visits do not guarantee anything. They just allow the teams to get a better feel of who the player is, personality-wise.
