As the Las Vegas Raiders prepare for the 2024 season, young cornerback Jakorian Bennett looks to step up in a secondary lacking depth but full of potential.
Bollywood Fever: Heading into the 2024 NFL season, the Las Vegas Raiders are expected to boast one of the stronger defenses in the league, with depth across many key positions.
However, one area that remains a concern is the cornerback position, where proven talent is limited beyond standout veterans Jack Jones and Nate Hobbs.
While those two are expected to lead the secondary, much of the spotlight will be on the development of younger players like Jakorian Bennett.
Bennett, selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, experienced the typical ups and downs of a rookie season.
Appearing in 14 games and starting in four, Bennett showed flashes of potential but also endured some growing pains.
He defended three passes and allowed a 68.4% completion percentage when targeted, with opposing quarterbacks posting a 102.5 passer rating against him.
Reflecting on his rookie year, Bennett shared his experience of learning the NFL’s intricacies. “It just took that year for me to really process, see what they were doing,” Bennett said during a recent press conference. “See what they like to do, how they like to try to line up and beat us.”
Known for his blazing speed, Bennett is confident that few receivers can outrun him. “The type of player I am, there’s really not too many people that can run past me, if anybody,” Bennett explained. “If I can just slow the game down and just not rely on my physical attributes, that’s a plus.”
In 2024, with Jack Jones locking down the primary cornerback role and Nate Hobbs serving as the nickel corner, Bennett is expected to take on an increased role, likely covering the second option in opposing offenses.
With the Raiders lacking depth at cornerback, Bennett’s ability to grow into this role will be crucial for the team’s success.
Fortunately, Bennett has been making waves during training camp, which is an encouraging sign heading into his sophomore season.
With a year of experience under his belt and his physical tools at the ready, the Raiders are hoping that Bennett can step up and solidify his place as a key contributor to their defense in 2024.
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