3 Las Vegas Raiders to watch against the Steelers in Week 2

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 14: Head coach Jon Gruden of the Las Vegas Raiders exits the field during a preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at Allegiant Stadium on August 14, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Seahawks 20-7. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 14: Head coach Jon Gruden of the Las Vegas Raiders exits the field during a preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at Allegiant Stadium on August 14, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Seahawks 20-7. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /
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HENDERSON, NEVADA – JULY 29: Johnathan Abram #24 of the Las Vegas Raiders listens to a question from a reporter during training camp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on July 29, 2021, in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images)
HENDERSON, NEVADA – JULY 29: Johnathan Abram #24 of the Las Vegas Raiders listens to a question from a reporter during training camp at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters/Intermountain Healthcare Performance Center on July 29, 2021, in Henderson, Nevada. (Photo by Steve Marcus/Getty Images) /

3 Las Vegas Raiders to watch against the Steelers in Week 2

Johnathan Abram, Safety

The third-year pro was all over the field Monday night, looking like the quarterback of the defense,  and he was not only vocal but nearly in the picture of every play. He was not close to the best defensive player Monday night, but his explosive play and ability to have a knack for where the ball was at all times was refreshing.

Considering his disappointing play from a season ago, it seems as if the hard-hitting safety has finally matured, and is looking to capitalize on a strong showing. The thing about the Steelers’ offense is that it relies on a variety of receivers and thrives on short passing, as Roethlisberger’s arm is not what it once was.

He is still able to benefit from having a bevy of talent at the receiver position, and Abrams must be at his best to keep an eye on the combination of these receivers. The strong safety will have to be at his best next to rookie free safety Tre’Von Moehrig if the Raiders are to stop this dangerous passing attack.

If Abram and company can lead a strong defensive battle, the hope is the Raiders can go 2-0 before returning home in Week 3. Keep an eye on Abram as he looks to show that his improvement signifies that the Raiders first-round investment in him from 2019 was just.