Allow Me to Re-Introduce D.J. Hayden

Nov 2, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks receiver Jermaine Kearse (15) is defended by Oakland Raiders cornerback D.J. Hayden (25) at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Getting There

Hayden obviously isn’t there yet with all the time off he’s had but will and is getting there. After he shook off a pass interference penalty on his first target, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson was 2-7 for 17 yards throwing his way. He had two passes defensed and should have had two interceptions in the game but dropped them.

Yes, Hayden needs to make those plays but Sunday was his first extended action of the 2014 season. One of them was a gift from Wilson and the on other, he showed his exceptional ability to break on the ball. Sooner than later, Hayden is going to start finishing those plays the the Raiders defense will start getting their turnovers.

After Sunday’s performance, it’s time for Carlos Rogers and Tarrell Brown to get behind Hayden and rookie corner T.J. Carrie. Opposing quarterback completed over 70 percent of their passes on the Raiders with Rodgers and Brown as the starters. With Carrie and Hayden getting major run Sunday, Wilson completed 48 percent of his passes so it’s time for the youngsters to take over.