The Las Vegas Raiders have struggled to force turnovers in recent seasons, but all of that should change in 2022 thanks to an influx of talent.
While the Raiders trading for Davante Adams may have been the biggest news of the offseason for the franchise, it was not the only crucial addition to the 2022 roster. In fact, when it comes to the 2022 defense, one could argue that the Raiders upgraded that side of the ball more than they did the offense.
Sure, Adams is Derek Carr’s best friend, and finally gives him the WR1 he has been lacking, but it was not like Carr was struggling to rack up numbers without him.
On defense, the issues have been way more concerning than what the offense has been able to do, but this could be a group that changes the narrative in 2022. Las Vegas added multiple playmakers on that side of the ball, including a former All-Pro, so maybe this is the year they can finally start to force some crucial turnovers.
That has been an issue for this franchise for some time now, and in a division that features elite quarterbacks at every turn, forcing them to turn the ball over is going to be paramount.
Raiders added talent on all three levels of the defense
Las Vegas already had an elite edge rusher in Maxx Crosby, but in 2022, he will be joined by former All-Pro Chandler Jones in getting after the quarterback. The Raiders have also added quality depth at defensive tackle and bolstered the linebacker group, two areas that have been revolving doors the past few seasons.
The big changes will come in the secondary, however, as Rock Ya-Sin is a quality cornerback who will jump right into the starting lineup. Las Vegas also added depth at safety, so if the combination of Jones and Crosby can make life uncomfortable for opposing quarterbacks, turnovers could be on the horizon in bunches.
Raiders: 3 players Las Vegas can still trade for before 2022 training camp
With training camp fast approaching, the Raiders can make a number of trades to bolster their team prior to the season. We take a look at three.
The AFC is going to be a gauntlet this season, but for once, Las Vegas has enough talent on both sides of the ball to not only put up points in bunches but also get stops and force some turnovers. With new players, a new defensive coordinator, and a new scheme on the defensive side of the ball, Raiders fans should be excited about the playmaking ability of this defense.