Las Vegas Raiders: 3 X-factor players for Week 2 vs. Saints

The Las Vegas Raiders need several players to step up if they want to beat the New Orleans Saints.

In Week 1, the Las Vegas Raiders narrowly escaped with a 34-30 win over the Carolina Panthers. While Christian McCaffrey’s team scored 30 points, the Panthers aren’t a threatening team.

If the Raiders gave up that much to Carolina, Jon Gruden’s team could get embarrassed on Monday Night Football as the welcome the New Orleans Saints to Sin City for the inaugural game at Allegiant Stadium.

If the Raiders stand any chance against their overpowering opponents, Las Vegas must receive a lot of help from these three X-factors.

3. Cory Littleton, LB

Littleton was one of the most underrated offseason signings this year. The former undrafted free agent out of Washington went from special teams ace to stud defender during his four seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. Last season, Littleton did everything for Wade Phillips’ defense, recording two interceptions, two forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, 3.5 sacks, and 134 tackles.

While he can pressure the quarterback and get involved against the run, Littleton excels in pass coverage. According to Pro Football Focus’ Solomon Wilcots, Littleton’s “above average ball skills and athleticism for a 6-3, 228-pound linebacker resembles a tall and lean defensive back.” He brings some sorely needed help to a defense that received PFF’s 29th ranked coverage grade (48.0) last season.

Littleton is an ideal matchup for tight ends and running backs, which means he’ll deal with Jared Cook and Alvin Kamara on Monday night. Both are multi-time Pro Bowlers that should see more targets in Michael Thomas’ absence. Per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the superstar receiver suffered a high-ankle injury last week and will miss several games.

The added emphasis on Drew Brees’ other pass-catching options makes Littleton’s importance to the Raiders skyrocket.