Raiders coach Klint Kubiak and his staff are maintaining that nearly every roster spot remains open to competition each week, a philosophy aimed at preventing complacency on a young team. "When you're fighting for playing time, there is no better motivator," Kubiak said after Friday's practice. "So, that's something that we're always doing. We've got a young roster, and we've got to see who's going to be a big part of us moving forward."
The most visible example is at cornerback, where rookie Hezekiah Masses and second-year player Darien Porter have rotated starting opposite Eric Stokes. Porter started last week and played 43 of 72 defensive snaps, while Masses took the other 29. Both players say the rivalry has improved their play. "I think it keeps bringing out the best in both of us and that's good for us and the team," Porter said. Masses added, "When he goes in there, I'm always hoping he makes a play and he does the same for me. We're just trying to make plays."
A third cornerback, fourth-round pick Jermod McCoy, is working his way back from an injury that sidelined him for a year and a half. Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard said McCoy had a good week of practice and is "right in the mix as well."
Leonard told the defense this week that every job is on the line, with the possible exception of Maxx Crosby and Nakobe Dean. "Everybody else is competing for the job, myself included. Every day," Leonard said. "I want them to feel that because it's true. There's nothing guaranteed."
The same approach applies on offense, particularly at right guard. Jackson Powers-Johnson opened the season as the starter, but Caleb Rogers filled in during an injury absence and later replaced him in the lineup. Now rookie Trey Zuhn III has entered the competition after strong practices, with Kubiak saying Zuhn "could be" in the mix for Sunday's game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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