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Las Vegas Raiders: 3 players who could surprise in a good way in 2021

By Alex Perl

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - SEPTEMBER 29: An Oakland Raiders helmet on the field before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - SEPTEMBER 29: An Oakland Raiders helmet on the field before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 29, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /
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Nov 29, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) runs with the ball after intercepting a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) runs with the ball after intercepting a pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Las Vegas Raiders: 3 players who could surprise in a good way in 2021

Johnathan Abram

Johnathan Abram has shown a knack for making big hits throughout his short career thus far, although many times it has been at the expense of dropping his man in coverage. This seemed to be the case throughout the 2020 season, unfortunately, and made many question the first-round pick used on Abram in 2019.

But what many seem to forget is that 2020 was basically a rookie season for Abram, as after only appearing in one game in 2019 due to injury, Abram got a fresh start in 2020. He seemed to be overly aggressive in his pursuit of making the “big hit” instead of just dropping back into man coverage, which also played a significant role in the Raiders having such a porous defense last season.

However, it seems that Abram is currently singing a new tune as he seems to have matured and has even been very vocal about learning under newly acquired cornerback Casey Hayward. This is significant considering Hayward excels at one thing, and that is coverage.

Also with a new defensive coaching staff incoming, led by defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, this should be a huge upgrade in the form of teaching and scheme compared to former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther from a season ago. With the Raiders loading up on safety talent in the NFL Draft and bringing back former Raider Karl Joseph, the Raiders are sending a message to Abram and the NFL that they are serious about upgrading the safety position.

Look for the acquisitions to push Abram and bring out the best in the 24-year-old safety. Expect a breakout season from the former Mississippi State product and one that should shock many around the league.

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