Oakland Raiders 2015 Preview: Playmakers forming defensive identity

October 19, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders cornerback T.J. Carrie (38) and middle linebacker Miles Burris (56) tackle Arizona Cardinals running back Andre Ellington (38) during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. The Cardinals defeated the Raiders 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

T.J. Carrie

Second-year cornerback T.J. Carrie has improved looks like he’s truly getting there as a cornerback. Last year, he looked good in spots while taking his lumps but built on all that to for this year. While I thought it would be Keith McGill, it has been Carrie that has stepped his game up, resembling a shut-down corner.

I can’t say he’s that guy yet but he’s starting to look like it as opposing teams throw his way the least. Against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday night, Carrie faced legendary receiver Larry Fitzgerald. There were even times that he followed Fitzgerald across the formation to make sure he was on him.

He did give up a 26-yard catch to Fitzgerald but Carrie forgot it quickly and tightened up on him after. That was the only catch Carrie gave up to Fitzgerald in three tries while Carrie broke one up. All of the Raiders provide tight coverage but what separates Carrie is his ability to make a play on the ball.

Next: Raiders Defensive Playmakers: Nate Allen