It's been a busy offseason for the Las Vegas Raiders. Although the AFC West is the best division on paper, this franchise will have a fighting chance to make the playoffs. Davante Adams gives Vegas a massive boost on offense while the defense aims to improve with the addition of Chandler Jones. Regardless, they'll need everyone to step up if they hope to remain atop the division. For that reason, we look at two hidden gems on the Raiders 2022 roster for the upcoming season.
All eyes are on the offense right now as Vegas has the pieces to compete with anybody. Between Davante Adams, Darren Waller, and Hunter Renfrow, the Raiders should have an elite passing attack. Additionally, Derek Carr and Josh Jacobs will be heavily involved as well. However, there is one backup running back flying under the radar that could shake things up for the offense.
The Raiders are likely to rely on the pass rush on the defensive side of the ball, as Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones form a powerful duo. Even so, the rest of the defense must improve for Las Vegas to have a chance. Luckily for them, the front office acquired a solid linebacker who is ready to ball out for this team.
With that said, here are two hidden gems on the Raiders roster for the 2022 season.
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Raiders Hidden Gems on 2022 Roster
Zamir White
Although he is a fourth-round pick, the rookie running back out of Georgia is in a unique position to become a major player for the Raiders. Zamir White has all of the tools needed to be a successful running back in the NFL. After three years in college, white accumulated 2,043 rushing yards and 25 rushing touchdowns. His 5.3 yards per carry average made him one of the most reliable options in the backfield throughout his college career.
Even though he never surpassed 1,000 yards in a single season, Zamir White proved to be consistent with his opportunities. Based on Kenyan Drake's struggles last year, the Raiders might consider moving White up the depth chart depending on how he performs in training camp. If that's the case, Las Vegas could have a dominant duo in the backfield.
That would be the ideal scenario. The Raiders could really use a different look behind Josh Jacobs. Zamir White can provide that different look to keep opposing defenses on their toes. If he shows out in training camp, look for Vegas to slowly work him into the offense.
Jayon Brown
After playing well for the Tennessee Titans, his tenure came to an end after struggling to remain healthy. Additionally, the front office found his replacement in Zach Cunningham while David Long Jr. became a nice surprise. So, Jayon Brown found himself as a free agent and the Raiders signed him.
Not many see Brown as a legitimate linebacker, but he was solid throughout his time in Tennessee. He will have a chance to get back to form in Las Vegas, which would be fantastic for this defense. Jayon Brown excels in pass coverage, which makes him a great match with the Raiders' pass rush. For that reason, he's considered a hidden gem on this defense.
A fresh new start is exactly what Brown needed and he gets that playing in Las Vegas. It'll be interesting to see how this defense plays in the 2022 season, but the Raiders are in good hands with Jayon Brown leading the way at inside linebacker. If he gets back to his playing ways before the injury spree, then Vegas will have a legitimate linebacking core this year.
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