Raiders’ newcomer Chris Lacy leaves a great first impression as he beats Nate Hobbs, who had a rough go of it on Thursday in training camp.
On Wednesday, the Las Vegas Raiders announced the team was parting ways with wide receiver Jordan Veasy. In a corresponding move, the Silver and Black signed wideout Chris Lacy. Many of Raider Nation may not know the name, being Lacy has appeared in only 8 contests since 2018, but the newest Raider is already making an impression in camp.
During Thursday’s 1-on-1 drills, Lacy was lined up against the young stud Nate Hobbs. Hobbs, who was the no.1 ranked corner when lined up in the slot last season, got a taste of what the newcomer had to offer. Lacy attacked Hobbs on the inside while Hobbs was pressed up at the line of scrimmage. This inside move caught the Raiders’ cornerback off guard, allowing Lacy to snag an easy 12-yard reception.
Of course, this was simply just a 1-on-1 rep, but outplaying Nate Hobbs is quite the feat. Not only was Hobbs the no.1 overall graded corner when playing nickel in 2021, but Pro Football Focus stated the Illinois alum also held the highest coverage grade from the slot.
"“After impressing in the slot during camp, he was given the starting job and went on to lead the NFL in coverage grade for the 2021 season.”"
With Mack Hollins, Demarcus Robinson, Keelan Cole, and Tyron Johnson fighting for spots behind Davante Adams and Hunter Renfrow, it will be hard – Almost impossible, really – to find a place for Lacy on the roster. Still, stranger things have happened, and besting Nate Hobbs is something other squads should note if they’re in the market for receiver depth.
Welcome to Raider Nation, Chris Lacy.
Recapping new Raiders WR Chris Lacy’s career in the NFL
Lacy went undrafted in the 2018 NFL Draft but soon found himself as a member of the Patriots. Just one week later, New England placed Lacy on waivers, where the Detroit Lions would claim the former Oklahoma State receiver.
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In Detroit, Lacy appeared in eight contests. During his ’19 campaign, Lacy logged the first reception of his professional career. He finished the season totaling 60-yards on 3 catches, helping move the chains with 2 first downs. Overall, Lacy saw the field on 249 occasions with the Lions, with 163 snaps acquired from lining up with the offense. This was the last season Lacy saw time on the field.