Las Vegas Raiders: 5 bold predictions for the 2022 offseason

Las Vegas Raiders: 5 bold predictions for the 2022 offseason

Bold Prediction No. 1: The Raiders add an elite cornerback

It has been a while since the Raiders looked at the cornerback position as one of strength, but with Nate Hobbs and Trayvon Mullen already in place, Las Vegas had the opportunity to solidify their cornerback room as one of the best in the league.

J.C. Jackson would undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market once free agency opens, and it is looking increasingly unlikely the Patriots will be able to reach an agreement with the star cornerback to prevent that from happening.

After questions about Jackson’s ability without Stephon Gilmore arose last offseason, Jackson swifty proved those to be foolish as he went on to have the best season of his career in 2021. This past season, Jackson tallied a career-high 23 pass break-ups and eight interceptions. If Jackson does, indeed, leave New England, whichever team ends up with him will receive a huge boost in their secondary.

With the Raiders having to face Justin Herbert and Patrick Mahomes each twice a year, a corner like Jackson, who completely takes away one side of the field, would be a massive get for Ziegler and McDaniels.

Speaking of Ziegler and McDaniels, the pair from New England is already extremely familiar with Jackson. Ziegler served as the director of pro personnel with the Pats when Jackson was signed as an undrafted free agent. Additionally, the new defensive coordinator in Las Vegas, Patrick Graham, is big on man-to-man corners, and Jackson is exactly that.

Our first bold prediction for the 2022 offseason is that the Raiders pry Jackson away from New England, signing him to a lucrative long-term deal.