Oakland Raiders: Analyzing the cornerbacks

Aug 14, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders cornerback Keith McGill (39) breaks up a pass intended for St. Louis Rams receiver Damian Williams (10) in a preseason NFL football game at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Keith McGill

All throughout the offseason second-year defensive back Keith McGill has been recognized for his performance during OTA’s and training camp, for he has often found himself working with the first-team ahead of Hayden.

As a 25-year-old rookie in 2014, McGill appeared in 12 games for Oakland, in which he earned nine combined tackles and one pass deflection.

At 6’3″, 210 pounds, McGill has ideal size for a dominant outside corner in the NFL, which creates a high ceiling for the young defensive back out of the University of Utah. Though, he still has yet to live up to his potential, as he will have to work on his technique and discipline in zone coverage before he will be able to translate his physical gifts into production on the field.

After a solid debut in Week 1 of the preseason, one in which he made a couple tackles and a nice deflection on a third down pass intended for Rams’ receiver Damian Williams, McGill would be in strong consideration for No. 2 corner spot if he continues to have a strong preseason.

I expect McGill to receive a good deal of playing time regardless if he is named the starter, as he will help Oakland matchup against bigger receivers and allow their defense to call more bump-and-run coverage along the outside.

Next: Cornerback Breakdown: Neiko Thorpe