Raiders: Johnathan Abram needs to succeed under Patrick Graham
Abram under Gus Bradley
Abram returned in 2020 and played overaggressive. He was flagged for his aggression and cost the Raiders in penalties while also being too aggressive, biting on play action and in coverage, and being beaten constantly. Abram was targeted over and over again and was a clear liability in coverage.
Abram moved to more of a box safety role under Gus Bradley and visibly improved. He was put in a position to succeed and was allowed to play to his strengths. He was rarely matched up in coverage and was able to stay close to the line of scrimmage and use his aggression to make plays.
However, Abram was still a weak link when he was in coverage as evidenced during the two games against the Chiefs where he was picked on. Abram also toned down his passionate personality at the asking of the regime and became quieter and reserved. Abram once again finished the season with an injured shoulder and opened the door for more questions.