More Position Reviews:Quarterbacks, Safeties, Offensive Line
Overview:Looking back at the 2015 campaign, if there was one position group that struggled throughout the season, it was the cornerbacks.
Heading into last season, the Silver and Black knew they would be inexperienced on the corners, electing to go with TJ Carrie and DJ Hayden as the starters coming out of training camp.
However, the personnel changed throughout the season with newcomer David Amerson earning one of the base cornerback positions and Carrie moving to play safety because of injuries in the secondary.
Admittedly, the group did improve as the season wore on, but in total, the Raiders allowed 258.8 yards passing yards per game, which ranked 26th in the NFL.
By The Numbers:In the team's Week 12 clash with the Tennessee Titans, Amerson recorded an interception and a career-high six passes defensed. According to STATS, LLC., the six passes defensed set a Raiders single-game record.
Going Forward:This is another group that will likely be undergoing major changes this offseason.
Amerson was outstanding once he arrived in Oakland, leading the team with 26 passes defensed and likely cementing a starting role for next season in the process.
However, outside of the former Washington Redskins draft pick, uncertainty remains for the cornerbacks.
As we said earlier, Carrie spent time on the back end this season, and it's unclear what his long-term position will be.
Neiko Thorpe and DJ Hayden also earned time on the outside, but heading into 2016 it's unlikely either would start.
Take a look at some of the top prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft in action.
As it stands now, the group is rather thin, and many expect General Manager Reggie McKenzie to address the depth at cornerback in both free agency and the draft.
Standout Performer:David Amerson.
Amerson was easily one of the best in-season acquisitions in the NFL last year, joining the Silver and Black before their Week 4 contest with the Chicago Bears and eventually earning a starting role later in the season.
He was outstanding in coverage, and an argument could have been made that he should have made the 2016 Pro Bowl.
While questions remain on the outside, heading into 2016 Amerson provides some stability for the group, and he's definitely a player to keep an eye going forward.
