Raiders 2022 free agency: 3 depth signings that still make sense

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 26: Strong safety Jason McCourty #30 of the Miami Dolphins walks off the field after warmups before a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on September 26, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Dolphins 31-28 in overtime. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

Raiders 2022 free agency: 3 depth signings that still make sense

Jason McCourty, Cornerback

Stephon Gilmore is the clear no.1 cornerback on the market, bringing an instant lockdown corner presence to a secondary. There have been mixed reports regarding the Raiders and Gilmore for some time now, leaving many of Raider Nation to believe that ship has sailed. If that’s the case, former Patriot Jason McCourty is a great depth option for Las Vegas.

Needless to say, McCourty is no Gilmore. Approaching his 35th birthday in August, the veteran cornerback isn’t getting any younger, either. With both of those things being said, McCourty is still an excellent depth piece, much more for a defensive coordinator such as Patrick Graham who believes versatility is key.

Las Vegas agreed to terms with Darius Phillips this off-season, who’s currently the team’s no.4 corner. Truthfully, I’m not so convinced Phillips is what Graham is looking for in his fourth cornerback.

Four or five legitimate cornerbacks is the number both Graham and the Raiders want, and with Phillips allowing an opposing passer rating of 137.7 last season, you have to wonder if the Silver and Black are content here.

My guess would be no.

This is where McCourty comes in, who’s broken up 108 passes in his career. He’s done this from a little of everywhere in the secondary, mainly playing on the outside. What this means is, that not only will McCourty take over as the no.4 on the outside, but he’ll be able to rotate at various spots in the secondary under Graham’s command.

Gilmore had a historic season on his way to a Defensive Player of the Year award in 2019, but New England also had another lockdown corner at the no.2 spot – Jason McCourty.

During this season, the brother of Devin held opposing quarterbacks to a 48.4 completion percentage, and 54.7 ratings. For comparison, JC Jackson, who Raider Nation [rightfully so] banged the table for, allowed a 49.1 completion percentage and 46.8 ratings. Comparable numbers, albeit Gilmore, took the opposing team’s no.1 receiver most of the time, similar to Jackson.

To sum this up: The Las Vegas Raiders can’t go wrong with adding McCourty to the team. He’s cheap, he’s versatile, he’s successful.

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