2019 Oakland Raiders position group preview: Cornerbacks

Nevin Lawson

Another reason why this year feels different for the Raiders cornerbacks is the addition of Nevin Lawson. Now I’m not trying to say Lawson is a star player or anything, but his addition just brings the quality of depth up. Lawson has been a starter for the Detroit Lions over the last five years, which indicates he’s able to play at a high enough level to maintain his position.

That says a lot for a guy who has been starting opposite of one of the best corners in the game in Darius Slay.

Last season, Lawson saw the bulk of his snaps in the slot. However, he is able enough to kick outside and play coverage there. With Lawson, the Raiders get the best of both worlds in coverage. Throw in the added fact that he’s a superb player in run defense as he ranked 7th out of 126 cornerbacks in run defense. Think about this, Lawson is likely going to be fourth in the depth chart.

LaMarcus Joyner is going to anchor the slot, which I’m assuming Lawson will see the field most to handle the opposite receiver or come in as relief. Other than that, seeing snaps on the outside will be difficult. It’s just further proof that this year may indeed be different afterall when it comes to the Oakland Raiders cornerbacks.