Las Vegas Raiders: 2019 class still has a chance to be elite
Las Vegas Raiders: 2019 class still has a chance to be elite
Crosby, Mullen, and Moreau
All three of these guys have shown a lot of promise but can still improve heading into this season. Crosby has arguably been the best player out of these three, as he had incredible rookie campaign where he was a legitimate contender for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
Heading into 2020, the expectations for Crosby was through the roof, yet he failed to meet them, though it was entirely his fault. He had a broken hand and a torn shoulder, and he was constantly doubled-teamed since he was Las Vegas’ only efficient pass rusher.
With Ngakoue added to the team, pressure will be on Crosby to see if he can be the same type of pass rusher that he was in his rookie year.
Mullen has been the team’s best corner since 2019, but things could change in 2021. Mullen may be asked to play in zone coverage in Bradley’s scheme. In the past, Mullen has struggled in zone coverage, as his skillset and experience make him more suited to play in man coverage.
It’s yet to be seen if Mullen can adjust. If he can’t, then the Las Vegas secondary will be in a lot of trouble.
As for Moreau, it will be important to monitor how he returns to an expanded role at tight end. He had a great rookie year and proved to be a reliable secondary weapon at tight end, but his job was given to the aging Jason Witten this past season.
Now, with Witten gone, Moreau should see the field much more often. If he does, he’ll have a lot of success if he can use his size and athleticism to win in one-on-one situations. Moreau should also be a main red zone target for Las Vegas, which was one of their biggest areas of struggle in 2021.
As stated earlier, all of these players have the potential to be major difference makers for Las Vegas, and that’s why they were drafted after all. If they do live up to expectations, then Las Vegas should be a much more dangerous and complete football team.