Oakland Raiders: 5 Key roster battles to watch during 2019 preseason

Cornerback

Contenders: Daryl Worley, Trayvon Mullen

The Raiders have an intriguing starting cornerback battle between Worley and Mullen. The front office re-signed the former to a one-year, $3.1 million deal in April and selected the latter in the second round of this year’s draft.

Worley has started 34 out of 41 contests in his career, logging 26 pass breakups and four interceptions. He doesn’t have top-notch speed and athleticism but adds some toughness on the perimeter with the ability to supplement the run defense.

In 2018, Worley had an uneven campaign, which started with a four-game suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. He started nine out of 10 games; quarterbacks recorded a 59.1 percent passer rating when targeting him, but the 24-year old also gave up five touchdowns, per Pro Football Focus (subscription required).

Mullen’s collegiate numbers don’t jump off the page, 68 solo tackles, four interceptions and seven pass breakups, but he provides the speed and athleticism the Raiders defense needs on the back end. At 6-1, 199 pounds, the Clemson product can also challenge receivers with his physicality.

Mullen has practiced with the second team during training camp. He’ll have to show progress in shadowing combination routes in the next few weeks. The coaching staff will likely pay attention to his footwork to make sure the rookie doesn’t take false steps or take himself out of position to make plays.

At some point in the season, Mullen will start over Worley, who’s on a one-year prove-it deal, but the Raiders probably go with the veteran to open the season — sprinkling the rookie into certain situations.

Prediction: Daryl Worley