The Las Vegas Raiders picked up their first victory of the 2024 season on Sunday, upsetting the Baltimore Ravens 26-23 at M&T Bank Stadium. A primary reason Las Vegas came away with the road upset win was the play of the defense, and especially the secondary.
The Raiders' secondary, led by Jack Jones, Nate Hobbs, and the versatile safety duo of Marcus Epps and Tre'Von Moehrig, completely shut down the Ravens' passing attack in the second half of their Week 2 win.
The unit is off to a solid start to the season, but Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine wants to see the team add veteran cornerback Xavien Howard to the defensive backs room.
It's kind of amazing that Howard hasn't been signed yet. He was a solid starter for the Miami Dolphins last season at a position where it isn't always easy to find solid starters. Even if he's dealt with some injury issues, he's been a good player when he's been on the field.
That's something the Raiders could use. They are relying on a lot of young guys to take the next step in their development. Signing Howard would give them a good option if someone like Jakorian Bennett doesn't take the next step.
Though Howard's best playing days are behind him, the 31-year-old could still provide good depth in the Raiders' cornerbacks group. The former second-round pick had a decent 2023 season, posting one interception and an 86.7 passer rating when targeted while playing 741 defensive snaps.
In terms of a starting spot, the only one Howard could possibly occupy is the No. 2 role, but second-year cornerback Jakorian Bennett is off to an impressive start to the season, surrendering a 54.2 passer rating when targeted through two games.
If Las Vegas can acquire the former Pro Bowl corner for cheap to serve as a top-depth option that can provide some veteran leadership in Ricky Manning's unit, it would be an excellent early-season signing for the Raiders.
