Ranking the Oakland Raiders 5 crucial roster needs for 2019 offseason

5. Cornerback

Cornerback ranks as the lowest among the five priorities because of Gareon Conley‘s strong sophomore year. He led the team in pass breakups (15) and tied safety Marcus Gilchrist for a team-leading three interceptions. It’s the one position on this list that features a top-notch talent with a bright future ahead for years to come in silver and black.

If the Raiders don’t tender Daryl Worley or decide not to match an offer sheet for him, the need for a cornerback rises a little bit. There’s also the possibility that Nick Nelson develops into a solid contributor, though, he’s unproven at this point.

In a division with two playoff teams—both pushing the ball downfield through the air effectively—Mayock and Gruden have to prepare the roster to compete against their rivals. The first objective is to win the AFC West. To do that, the defense has to find a way to stop or slow down Patrick Mahomes and Philip Rivers. Conley can’t accomplish that feat alone.

Ronald Darby will headline the position during free agency, but he’s struggled to stay healthy over the last two seasons, missing 15 contests since 2016. Bashaud Breeland will fly under the radar but deserves some consideration as a free-agent target.

The front office can land a cornerback on the back end of the first round to pair with Conley. The Raiders would have an upstart and promising perimeter tandem. This year’s cornerback class offers some intriguing names such as Greedy Williams, Byron Murphy and Deandre Baker as potential top-32 picks.