5 Oakland Raiders who need a big Preseason Week 1
DJ Hayden
Alas, the question mark that is DJ Hayden’s career. Forget the pressure of having to assume the role of a No. 1 cornerback in the NFL, the pressure of having to take the role of a No. 2 cornerback has already proven to be too much for the returning cornerback. Fortunately for Hayden, McKenzie finally found those two corners that Mark Davis well knowingly coveted.
Most assumed TJ Carrie would smoothly assert himself as the lead slot corner man, but Hayden has shown the flashes of his first-round pedigree throughout the early portion of camp. The slot position fancies the quick feet and fluid hips Hayden is known for, taking away the fault in his size that has seemingly been holding him back when covering bigger, more physical receivers outside the hashes.
Although offensive coordinators know the game well enough to exploit Hayden no matter where he is on the field, the confidence that can be gained from winning this sort of camp competition could mean the fourth year player can take major developmental strides for the upcoming season.
This also seems like a camp battle that will withstand the entirety of the program, and should ensure that a high level of competition can be found throughout this Raiders’ secondary. McKenzie would again love to see another high draft pick play meaningful minutes while making a significant impact, but TJ Carrie will not cede his ostensibly aligned starting position without a 12-round match.