As we approach the 2024 NFL Combine, Las Vegas Raiders eagerly await to see what their team will do at the quarterback position in April’s NFL Draft. Yet, the Raiders have other needs, too.
One of those needs in particular is a cornerback. The Raiders’ search for a standout outside cornerback, to play opposite 2023 free agent gem Jack Jones, means this year’s deep class at the position will be a focus for them at the 2024 NFL Combine. Let’s take a look at five cornerbacks Raider Nation should keep an eye on as they watch the NFL Combine from Indianapolis this year.
Cooper DeJean, Iowa
Cooper DeJean is his versatility and natural ability to create plays. His journey leading up to the 2024 NFL Combine has been marked by a great career with the Hawkeyes that showcases his durability and flexibility playing as an outside, inside and in the slot at cornerback. DeJean’s football intelligence enables him to read offenses well and be a source of constant disruption. His talent for being in the place at the right time has established him as a formidable presence on the field.
Although DeJean won’t test physically on the field during the NFL Combine as he’s still recovering from a leg injury suffered during the year, he will be in attendance to interview with teams interested in him. Expect the Raiders to talk to the top cornerback available in this season’s draft as a playmaker of his stature could be a first-round target if they go a different direction at quarterback.
Nate Wiggins, Clemson
Nate Wiggins is known as a top-notch cover specialist, and his athleticism and coverage skills make him a perfect fit for the Raiders cornerback needs. His agility, speed, and ability to shadow receivers downfield pose a challenge for rival quarterbacks and would be a great fit in the AFC West. Wiggins is known for breaking up passes and creating turnovers at critical moments. This knack for big plays and his overall speed and coverage skills are why he is projected to go in the first round.
Thanks to his athleticism, Wiggins can cover a wide area meaning he is highly effective in both man-to-man and zone coverage sets. His quick reflexes and agility allow him to adapt mid-air to make plays on contested balls making him a target to watch for Raiders at the NFL Combine as they will be in dire need of a shutdown corner.
Kool Aid McKinstry, Alabama
Kool-Aid McKinstry is not only a ball hawk, but he’s one of the smartest and most intuitive football players you’ll see at the NFL Combine. Throughout his career at Alabama, he has showcased his ability to create turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses. McKinstry brings more than just cerebral and physical skills to the table, though. McKinstry’s leadership qualities and maturity have impressed scouts enough to position him as a key player for any NFL defensive backfield.
Kamari Lassiter, Georgia
Kamari Lassiter stands out for his physicality at the line of scrimmage and his tenacity. He’s known for continuously disrupting receivers at the point of the catch. His aggressive style of play and his ability to impede receivers’ routes give him an advantage in man-to-man coverage. His readiness to engage physically and fight for every catch makes him an appealing prospect for Patrick Graham’s defense that values toughness and competitiveness in the secondary.
Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
Quinyon Mitchell was the talk of the Senior Bowl, as his performance, speed, agility, and impressive interviews made a lasting impression. He’s the fastest riser amongst the groups and shot up the NFL Combine “must watch” list, placing him among the top cornerback prospects.
Quinyon Mitchell’s ability to read plays in the zone and identify routes swiftly is one of his best attributes. This skill helps him adjust rapidly to quarterback decisions and movements of the ball. His electric speed enables him to keep up with receivers known for their deep-threat capabilities, showing off acceleration and enduring high speeds. Mitchell excels in tackling, especially when facing receivers, where his physicality and willingness to deliver hits are evident. These qualities demonstrate Quinyon Mitchell’s potential as a dynamic defender in the NFL, blending intellect with strength.
While the Las Vegas Raiders will have to address their quarterback situation during the offseason, the need at cornerback, and in other spots, should not be lost in the shuffle. The stellar cornerback group you’ll see at the NFL Combine should be must-watch television as the Raiders could be in the market for one of these players early in the draft.