Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each defensive position in 2021
Las Vegas Raiders: One question for each defensive position in 2021
Safety: Can Johnathan Abram bounce back in year three?
Last year was essentially Abram’s rookie year, and the rookie struggles were obvious. Abram had a tough time in pass coverage where he allowed a couple big receptions, with the most notable mistake coming in week 10 against the Kansas City Chiefs. Now, after just one season, it seems as though Abram is in a bit of hot water.
He’ll really need to bounce back if he wants to be this team’s starter long-term.
Luckily for him, Abram will be playing in a new system this season that better suits his skill sets. His new position is called box safety, which functions a bit like a linebacker and allows for Abram to be used more creatively. He’ll rush the passer, have great angles on runs, and occasionally drop back into pass coverage. Essentially, he’ll function similarly to Kam Chancellor and Jamal Adams.
In this new role, Abram should be able to find a lot more success. If he does, then he’ll be the biggest difference-maker for this defense.
Even last year when he struggled, he was an electric player on defense that sets the tone for the rest of the team. Finding a way to apply that energy correctly and effectively to the game is going to determine his entire career.
Answer: Now that he has a new role that fits his skill set, he certainly should.