Las Vegas Raiders at Carolina Panthers: 3 things to watch in Week 1
Johnathan Abram’s return
After some veteran acquisitions in the offseason followed by the trimming of the roster to the official 53, it’s clear that Las Vegas is placing their faith in the young secondary in 2020. One of the exciting players to watch will be the return of Johnathan Abram, who was limited to just the season opener last season before a torn rotator caused him to miss the remainder of the season.
His debut last season was a small sample size but promising nonetheless, and that tenacity and hard-hitting style of play should give Las Vegas’ secondary a boost. While the Raiders’ pass rush will be key to monitor as the season rolls along, the secondary will need to hold their own nonetheless, and having Abram back in the fold will be a crucial element to the unit’s success.
That ferociousness will be welcomed back with open arms, but as Abram accurately expressed to The Athletic‘s Tashan Reed, “The best ability is availability.” Having him back in the fold Week 1 is a significant addition, and it will be key to ensure he continues to suit up throughout the remainder of the season. Look for him to make an impact on Sunday, and ensure that he continues to do so as the year carries on.