Las Vegas Raiders: 2024 trade deadline predictions
As the NFL trade deadline approaches at 4 p.m. ET, playoff-contending teams and clubs at the bottom of the standings must make crucial decisions. Is it time to acquire or trade roster assets in exchange for draft capital?
At 2-7, the Raiders should be sellers, but The Athletic’s Vic Tafur and Tashan Reed don’t expect the team to make any moves as it tries to position for a quick rebuild in 2025.
Though the Raiders aren’t expected to move any of their best players like Maxx Crosby, Christian Wilkins, who recently underwent foot surgery, or sensational rookie tight end Brock Bowers, they could trade aging veterans on expiring contracts to get younger players on the field for development and a possible spark while on a five-game losing streak.
Related: NFL power rankings 2024
Let’s take a look at players other than Crosby and left tackle Kolton Miller, currently in a walking boot, who have been discussed in trade rumors leading up to Tuesday’s deadline and give a verdict on their short-term futures.
Nate Hobbs is retained and extended
One can argue that Nate Hobbs is the Raiders’ best defensive back. He lines up in the slot, but he’s been on the field for 81 percent of the team’s defensive snaps so far this season.
Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham has used Hobbs to blitz more than in the past. Hobbs has already been in on a blitz 17 times, which is a career-high.
Related: NFL coaching candidates
Though Hobbs’ missed tackle rate is up this year, he’s a solid run defender who’s lined up in the box for 97 snaps, per Pro Football Focus.
This year, Hobbs has shined most in coverage, allowing a career-best 85.4 passer rating, lining up in the slot (247 snaps) and on the boundary (101 snaps).
General managers will likely inquire about Hobbs to bolster their nickel defenses, but Telesco should consider extending him rather than moving the fourth-year cornerback elsewhere.
