As Day 2 of the legal tampering period ends, the Raiders announced the signing of cornerback Darius Phillips. Who is Phillips, and what does he offer the Silver and Black?
With Day 2 of free agency now in the books, the Las Vegas Raiders remain silent as the front office once again doesn’t allow themselves to spend big. They didn’t come away empty-handed, though, as the team announces the addition of former Cincinnati Bengal, Darius Phillips. The corner joins on a one-year deal worth $2.25 million.
Before you panic, Raider Nation, let me start by saying this: Phillips is not the corner Las Vegas is rolling the dice with to start outside with Trayvon Mullen. The Raiders have made that clear by still pursuing two cornerbacks, which we’ll dive into soon.
Over the last three seasons, the former Bengal has recorded five takeaways, 21 pass breakups, and has even forced two fumbles. Phillips also had the chance to return 25 punts and eight kickoffs last season, bringing some always-valuable special teams experience to the desert.
This wasn’t a head-turning signing by any stretch of the imagination, but it at least got the ball rolling for the Raiders in this year’s free agency. In addition to Phillips, it was reported Las Vegas is expected to sign running-back Brandon Boldin, who will reunite with some old Patriot friends.
That’s not all that happened, though. The Raiders began shifting their attention to another team’s cornerback later in the day, as well as losing a few players to other teams in free agency. If you missed any of it, don’t worry; We have you covered.