Lamarcus Joyner will be vital to Oakland Raiders future
With the ability to play in multiple spots on the defensive side of the ball, Lamarcus Joyner is a vital addition for the Oakland Raiders next season and beyond.
Plenty of noise has been made about the Oakland Raiders’ additions on the offensive side of the ball. The potential has given fans plenty to look forward to ahead of the 2019 season, but don’t overlook how Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock addressed glaring needs on defense. The signing of Lamarcus Joyner to a four-year, $42 million contract was a pleasant sight for defensive coordinator Paul Guenther.
Joyner is donning the Silver and Black after coming from Los Angeles, where he played for the Rams for the past five seasons. Lamarcus Joyner saw snaps at defensive back as well as free safety, and the 2018 season was a strong one statistically.
In 15 games, which he all started, Joyner recorded career highs in combined and solo tackles with 78 and 58 tackles respectively. He also recorded an interception and a fumble recovery for Los Angeles a season ago.
The statistical production along with his tackling and coverage ability should have Oakland excited, but that is not what solely makes him important for the coming season and beyond.
Joyner’s ability to line up and play in multiple positions is what makes him vital. Better yet, not only does he strengthen the defense, he gives Guenther a means of throwing different looks at the opponent. Look for Joyner to get ample opportunities at slot corner, on the outside, as well as playing deep at safety.
Better yet, Joyner should have no issue taking part in the frequent blitz Paul Guenther has drawn up. Lamarcus Joyner doesn’t simply fill a positional need, his versatility brings a unique advantage that the Raiders should benefit from immensely.
And at 28 years old, Joyner fits in perfectly with the timeline that the Raiders are working with. Oakland made it a goal to sign veteran players who can still contribute, but better yet help advise and guide the new Raiders via the draft.
Jonathan Abram, taken with the 27th pick in the first round out of Mississipi State, is one of those young players who will benefit from Joyner’s mentorship.
Not only will Lamarcus Joyner be able to produce on the field immediately, but he should help groom the likes of Jonathan Abram and those behind him on the depth chart. Joyner’s presence is not only benefitting the Raiders’ 2019 season but their overall future beyond next year.
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Despite the necessity to put points on the board, Oakland needs their defense to step up and be able to contain their opponents. Many tough offenses headed their way come from within the AFC West. Lamarcus Joyner should help headline a revamped defense, but his contributions go past this next season. If there’s success on the horizon, Joyner will be among the catalysts.