The Las Vegas Raiders have Eric Stokes, Darien Porter and Taron Johnson listed as the starting cornerbacks on their Week 1 depth chart, though there's room for another experienced player at the position.
Behind them, rookies Jermod McCoy and Hezekiah Masses could see the field in a rotation, and according to ESPN's Ryan McFadden, Masses even took reps in the slot during training camp.
Las Vegas also claimed Darrell Luter Jr., but he only started in three of 27 games with the San Francisco 49ers. Based on John Spytek's decision to prioritize the cornerback position after the roster cuts deadline, he may be open to another addition.
Let's talk about former Indianapolis Colts starter Jaylon Jones.
Former Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones could be a potential fit for the secondary
The Colts recently waived Jones, who is now available to sign with any team. The Raiders, who are short on experience, should at least consider bringing him in to bolster a young cornerback unit.
The Athletic's Sam Warren believes that the Raiders' No. 2 cornerback position remains unsettled heading into the regular season.
"Porter has staked his claim as the starter opposite Stokes, though rookies McCoy and Masses should continue to challenge him for that role throughout the season."
Porter is slated to open the campaign opposite Stokes on the boundary, but he'll have to string together solid performances to solidify his spot. If the second-year pro falls out of favor, Masses, who had a strong showing through the offseason, and McCoy will have a chance to replace him.
However, the two rookies could struggle in coverage because of their inexperience—that's where Jones can fill in gaps.
Through three seasons with the Colts, Jones started in 29 out of 44 contests, logging 21 pass breakups and two interceptions. In 2024, he started in every game and allowed just one touchdown and a passer rating of only 86.0 (out of a possible 158.3).
In the following year, Indianapolis hired a new defensive coordinator, Lou Anarumo, and Jones fell out of favor and landed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.
On X, SI.com's Noah Compton praised Jones for overcoming obstacles to make the Colts' 53-man roster.
"He’d been in DC Lou Anarumo’s doghouse due to a poor schematic fit, but Jones scratched and clawed his way onto the team. What an impressive turnaround."
Though Jones didn't make it to Week 1 in Indianapolis, he's proven the ability to handle a lead role at his position.
At just 24, Jones still has upside. So, the Raiders wouldn't be kicking the tires on an older veteran. He can grow along with Porter, McCoy and Masses in a young secondary that needs someone to emerge in a prominent role.
Moe Moton writes about the Raiders for Just Blog Baby. You can follow him on Twitter at @MoeMoton.
Add us as a preferred source on Google