Las Vegas Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers: 3 Raiders to watch in Week 18
By Alex Perl
Las Vegas Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers: 3 Raiders to watch in Week 18
Casey Hayward Jr.
Touching back on the depleted secondary, we must look at the best of the bunch to cover even more ground than he usually does in what has been a great season for the veteran corner.
Casey Hayward Jr. was brought over in the offseason not only because of his familiarity with defensive coordinator Gus Bradley’s play-calling but also with a Raiders secondary that was so young and experienced, the onus would be on Hayward to get this group up to speed to the level of the NFL.
What we have received in return in the former Charger has been largely surprising. It was said his best days were behind him, but when looking at the play of the veteran cornerback, Hayward has been head and shoulders the Raiders’ best cornerback throughout the season.
With injuries, COVID-19 protocols, and now the unfortunate news surrounding star rookie cornerback Nate Hobbs, the Raiders will rely even heavier on its star cornerback, who has been the most consistent bright spot within this secondary throughout the season.
If anyone knows the Chargers, it is Hayward. Last season was Hayward’s last as a Charger, after spending five seasons with the team and earning two Pro Bowl nods. So if anyone is familiar with opposing quarterback Justin Herbert and star receiver Keenan Allen, it is indeed Hayward.
Look for Hayward’s up close and personal familiarity with his former teammates to not only play a large role in a win or loss in this contest but also because he will have to elevate his already superb play to an even higher level with such a decimated secondary this week.