Raiders Roster Shake-Up: Defensive Depth Chart Raises Questions Ahead of Season Opener

As the Las Vegas Raiders prepare for the 2025 NFL season, their initial 53-man roster is set, but several defensive positions remain areas of concern heading into the season opener against the New England Patriots.

The cornerback position is a particular focus, with Eric Stokes seemingly locked in as a starter, but the other outside corner spot still up for grabs. Rookie Darien Porter, a third-round pick from Iowa State, is expected to take over that role, but he was viewed as a project coming out of college and did not appear ready for action during the preseason. This could lead to Kyu Blu Kelly or Decamerion Richardson getting the nod instead.

The slot corner position is also a mystery, with Nate Hobbs having departed for the Green Bay Packers in the offseason. Darnay Holmes has the most experience at the nickelback role, but has struggled throughout his career. The coaching staff has also toyed with the idea of using safety Jeremy Chinn or newly acquired Tristin McCollum in the slot, but both have limitations in coverage.

Linebacker is another position group with question marks. While Elandon Roberts and Germaine Pratt are expected to be the starters, the coaching staff will need to determine how to rotate Jamal Adams, Devin White, Tommy Eichenberg, and Cody Lindenberg. Adams and White bring versatility, but neither is known for their coverage skills.

The safety position also lacks a clear answer, with Isaiah Pola-Mao, Chris Smith II, and McCollum all lacking the elite range needed to provide deep coverage. Chinn could help in this area, but is better suited to playing in the box.

As the Raiders prepare for their season opener, the defensive depth chart remains a work in progress, with several key positions still up for grabs. The coaching staff will need to find the right combinations to shore up the secondary and linebacker corps if they hope to compete in the AFC West.