The Raiders might have a defense in Year 2 of Patrick Graham’s system. All reports from training camp have been overwhelmingly positive as the defense is flying all over the field and making plays. At first it was hard to tell whether the defense had really improved or if the offense was in big trouble.
However, this week the Raiders invited the 49’ers to join them for joint practices. The 49’ers are a legitimate Super Bowl contender and the Raiders took them to task. The defense was playing with intensity, wreaking havoc and creating turnovers.
This afternoon, the Raiders and Niners will kick-off the preseason and the defense is the reason for watching. Here is what I’ll be watching today:
Nesta Jade Silvera – The 7th Round rookie DT has been generating some buzz. He’s received praise from Maxx Crosby and has been described as “powerful” and a “bully” by writers at camp. Could the Raiders have found a steal in the last round of the draft?
Jakorian Bennett – Another rookie to look out for. Bennett is a ball hawking CB with elite speed. He’s pushing for a starting job opposite of Marcus Peters.
Safeties – Word has been the Tre’von Moehrig has looked like he’s playing with more confidence. Free Agent Marcus Epps comes over from the Eagles and has provided a commanding presence in the defensive backfield. Epps has been helping get his teammates in the right position to make plays. Isaiah Pola-Mao is another safety that the team likes and sounds like he’s taken a step forward in his progress. Christopher Smith is a rookie from Georgia who drew comparisons to former Raider Duron Harmon.
Interior Defensive Line – The Raiders defensive line is as deep a unit as they’ve boasted in quite some time. However, for them to make an impact they need a couple of guys to step up and differentiate themselves as pocket pushers. Silvera has been one player that is starting to show this ability. Neil Farrell, Byron Young, Jerry Tillery and Bilal Nichols are other players on the interior line with high upside that could make an impact. The success of this rotation will be a major key to the defense.