D.J. Hayden Could Lose His Spot With Oakland Raiders
Jun 9, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders assistant defensive backs coach Rod Woodson (center) talks with cornerbacks D.J. Hayden (25) and Brandian Ross (29) at minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Oakland Raiders have drafted really well in 2014 and 2015.
In 2014, the first three picks were Khalil Mack, (EDGE) Derek Carr, (QB) and Gabe Jackson (OG). Amari Cooper, (WR) Mario Edwards Jr. and Clive Walford (TE) were the first three in 2015. In 2013, third-round pick Sio Moore is a beast but second-round pick Menelik Watson was horrible in 2014.
Where does that leave 2013 first-round draft pick D.J. Hayden?
Well, Hayden started once healthy last year but this year, he may not be the starting cornerback. According to ESPN’s Bill Williamson, Hayden was on the second team for much of the offseason. It has been 2014 fourth-round pick Keith McGill and seventh-round pick T.J. Carrie with the first unit.
Williamson did say it’s a “fluid situation,” but McGill will have the edge entering training camp. McGill is the one that’s in his spot as last year, he looked like the Raiders’ best corner once healthy. He’s also the one the most resembles Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner, whom defensive coordinator had in Seattle.
In this, Hayden’s third year, we’ll see if G.M. Reggie McKenzie scored with his first first-round pick. It could end up being Hayden and McGill as the starters with Carrie as the No. 3 corner. Either way, the Raiders didn’t bring any veterans in so they must believe in all three plus Nieko Thorpe.