Defensive Overhaul Ahead
The Las Vegas Raiders face a significant offseason challenge as several key defensive players, including Robert Spillane, Malcolm Koonce, and Nate Hobbs, approach free agency. Maintaining consistency in defense is now more critical than ever, and the team’s decisions will have lasting implications on their future performance.
Tre’von Moehrig’s Rising Stock
Among the departing players, safety Tre’von Moehrig stands out for his impressive contributions. According to CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin, Moehrig has emerged as one of the top free agent safeties on the market. Benjamin, who ranked him as the second-best available, highlighted that Moehrig has continually improved since his second-round selection out of TCU in 2021. The former Longhorn has showcased his value by registering a career-high 104 tackles and 10 pass breakups in 2024 while stepping up amid team injuries. With durability as one of his defining traits—missing only two games in four seasons—Moehrig is projected to command a contract in the $12 million to $16 million annual range. Given the Raiders’ substantial cap space of $95 million, per Spotrac, prioritizing his re-signing appears to be a wise move for bolstering their defensive unit.
Exploring Secondary Options
While Moehrig remains the focal point, the Raiders are also considering alternatives to strengthen their secondary. Among these options is Minnesota Vikings safety Camryn Bynum, who has made a name for himself through consistent ball-hawking plays. Bynum has accumulated notable statistics, including seven interceptions, as well as a combined seven forced or recovered fumbles and 25 pass breakups since becoming a full-time player in 2022. Though his physical presence may not be imposing, his knack for maintaining possession and reading plays positions him as a viable candidate should the team be unable to lock Moehrig down. This potential move reflects the Raiders’ broader strategy of combining youthful talent with proven veterans to maintain a competitive edge in their defense.
With their free agent decisions looming, the Raiders’ approach in this offseason could define the future trajectory of their defense in the challenging landscape of the NFL.
