Oakland Raiders: Coaching staff finally increasing Shalom Luani’s workload
Due to injuries in the secondary, the Oakland Raiders coaching staff may have to significantly increase seventh-rounder Shalom Luani’s role on defense.
After playing just five snaps through seven weeks, Oakland Raiders fan favorite safety Shalom Luani will likely see an increased workload against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.
During Friday’s media presser, via the team’s official website, head coach Jack Del Rio didn’t state that Luani would start or guarantee more snaps for the rookie. However, safety Karl Joseph didn’t practice on Thursday and Friday. He lists as doubtful with a groin injury.
Joseph’s absence will hurt the Raiders secondary and run support at a time when the defensive coaching staff may need eight in the box. Nonetheless, it’s next man up as Del Rio explained before the team left for Buffalo (per Raiders.com):
"“We’ve got guys that are prepared and ready to go. Obviously, you’d like to have your starter there. That’s why he’s the starter. We’re next man up outfit. That’s how we’ll proceed with it. Shalom, obviously, is a young man that we’re excited about. He’s looking forward to getting a little more action than he’s had.”"
It’s possible Keith McGill starts at strong safety in Joseph’s place. Unfortunately, Raiders fans remember a potential interception bouncing off his hands, which led to a 63-yard touchdown reception in Week 7.
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On the bright side, Luani should see the field on defense at some point. Unless Del Rio decided to give empty compliments, the seventh-rounder has the ability to hold his own in secondary.
“He’s got great instincts and is a natural play maker,” Del Rio said. “He’s been chomping at the bit for an opportunity if Karl [Joseph] doesn’t end up being able to go, then he’s excited to get his turn.”
Ironically, it may take an injury to help the coaching staff see what they have in the Washington State product. Luani logged eight interceptions in two years with the Pac-12 program. The Raiders have yet to force a takeaway through the air. The secondary absolutely needs an instinctive player with quickness.
Initially, the Raiders may lean on McGill, the fourth-year veteran, who started the previous season at the position. Though, he’s only played 20 more snaps than Luani on defense. For the most part, both have been core special-teamers. The rookie leads the team with 195 snaps on kick coverage.
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Del Rio’s reluctance to bench free safety Reggie Nelson would cause an uproar from the fanbase if Luani registers the team’s first interception. It will also raise the question as to why he’s been restricted to special teams. Either way, Oakland absolutely needs him, McGill or Erik Harris to fill a void on Sunday.