Stephon Gilmore just sent a loud message the Raiders can't afford to ignore

The Las Vegas Raiders underwent significant changes in their secondary this offseason, with the cornerback position experiencing the most substantial overhaul. Only Jakorian Bennett remains from last year's starting group, following the departures of Nate Hobbs and Jack Jones. Their replacements—third-round rookie Darien Porter and former Green Bay Packer Eric Stokes—result in a unit lacking any player with over 45 NFL games of experience.

Despite notable veteran cornerbacks like Jaire Alexander and Jalen Ramsey signing elsewhere, one experienced option remains available: 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore. On "The Money Down Podcast," Gilmore expressed his desire to play this season but emphasized needing "the right situation," stating he can still contribute meaningfully.

Las Vegas presents an ideal fit for the 13-year veteran. Gilmore would immediately step into a starting role while mentoring the Raiders' young defensive backs. He demonstrated continued effectiveness in 2024 with the Minnesota Vikings, recording 56 tackles, one interception, nine passes defended, and earning a Pro Football Focus grade ranking 93rd among 222 cornerbacks.

Current projections suggest Bennett, Stokes, and Porter will start at cornerback, but their collective inexperience raises concerns about defensive vulnerabilities. While head coach Pete Carroll favors developing youth through training camp competition, the article argues that adding a proven veteran like Gilmore would provide immediate stability and leadership to the secondary.