Las Vegas Raiders: Player with most to prove at each defensive position in 2021
By Nick Ellis
Las Vegas Raiders: Player with most to prove at each defensive position in 2021
Linebacker: Cory Littleton
Cory Littleton was a huge signing for the Raiders last year, but he did not perform to the level that Raiders fans had expected once he stepped on the field. There was a lot of blame for Littleton’s performance to be given to Raiders former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther, so hopefully, he can return to how he played for the Rams under Gus Bradley.
Littleton was brought in to be a speedy linebacker that could not only tackle, but could perform in coverage, something the Raiders had not had in a long time, but unfortunately for Littleton, Kwiatkoski shined more in that role, leaving fans questioning the abilities of Littleton. The truth is, Littleton was a ballhawk with the Los Angeles Rams, and he has to prove he can be that once again in the Silver and Black.
With Gus Bradley as defensive coordinator, Littleton will have no excuses this time around and has a ton to prove this season, especially after his numbers in tackles decreased from 138 to 82 between 2019 and 2020, as well as recording zero sacks or interceptions last season. He will be asked to do less, utilizing his physical gifts more, which should lead to a monster second season for him in Vegas.