Las Vegas Raiders: 5 surprises from the first unofficial 2021 depth chart

Las Vegas Raiders: 5 surprises from the first unofficial 2021 depth chart

Quinton Jefferson gets the nod next to Johnathan Hankins

We have to dive back into defense here with recently acquired defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson. The defensive tackle spot is definitely up for grabs as Jefferson looks to withstand a late surge from other free-agent acquisitions in Soloman Thomas, and recently signed six-time Pro Bowler Gerald McCoy.

Jefferson has been the strongest performer so far and is a lot bigger than last year’s starter in Maurice Hurst, as he has the ability to clog the middle, and does have some burst when attacking the rush. The biggest threat to Jefferson’s throne at this point would point to McCoy.

McCoy has not been with the Raiders long after recently signing, so as he gets up to speed, this is subject to change. Jefferson has the advantage right now, though, as he has more time with the playbook and has been very solid in camp.

Las Vegas Raiders: Rookie talent emerging on defense in camp

The Las Vegas Raiders have invested a ton of draft capital on the defense, and the young players are emerging at camp so far this summer.

Also, McCoy has not been the healthiest of players recently, in fact, he missed the 2020 season due to injury, and at 33-years-old, it seems highly likely he is not the player he once was. At 28-years-old, Jefferson is in his prime and the depth chart as it stands may stay put in his favor.