Oakland Raiders vs. Tennessee Titans: Players of the Game

Nov 29, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Oakland Raiders cornerback David Amerson (29) breaks up a pass intended for Tennessee Titans wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham (17) during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Oakland won 24-21. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

David Amerson

Due in large part to their young, inexperienced secondary, the Raiders’ defense has allowed the fourth-most passing yards per game (282.7), but fortunately for Oakland, one of their late additions to the roster is beginning to be somewhat reliable in coverage.

Former Washington Redskins cornerback David Amerson was picked up by Oakland off waivers just two weeks into the 2015 season, and since then he has steadily worked his way into the Raiders’ starting lineup opposite of T.J. Carrie. Though the 2013 second-round pick didn’t have to do much to outperform the players listed above him, Amerson still came into Oakland with confidence in his ability and made enough plays to warrant considerable play time.

In his most recent start against Tennessee, Amerson had a career game in which he earned two tackles, an interception, and a career-high six passes defensed. Amerson now leads the team with 19 total passes defensed, while D.J. Hayden has just 18 on his career.

According to ProFootballFocus.com, Amerson had a career-high grade of +5.9 against Tennessee, while his overall grade on the season has been boosted to 82. Of the 114 eligible cornerbacks in the NFL, PFF now has Amerson ranked at No. 22.

Though the Raiders still have a pressing need within the secondary and will likely look to add talent to the position group this offseason, Amerson’s recent success should at least solidify himself within Oakland’s future plans as a quality depth cornerback.

Next: Players of the Game: Delanie Walker