The Las Vegas Raiders have spent the 2025 offseason reshaping their identity from the top down. With Pete Carroll taking over as head coach and John Spytek installed as general manager, the Silver and Black are leaning into a new era—one grounded in youth, long-term development, and Carroll’s familiar brand of physical football. But even after an aggressive spring, Las Vegas still has glaring questions at one of the game’s most important positions: cornerback.
The Raiders were active in the NFL Draft and added 11 new players, including athletic rookie corner Darien Porter. They also swung a trade for veteran quarterback Geno Smith and brought in former first-round corner Eric Stokes. Still, this secondary—especially on the outside—is inexperienced. If the season started today, it’s likely that Jakorian Bennett and Porter would open as the team’s starting outside corners. Bennett has just 11 career starts, and Porter is entering his first NFL season.
Las Vegas showed promise against the run last year but struggled through the air. The Raiders ranked 24th in opponent passer rating (96.5) and finished in the bottom half of the league in pass defense success rate. After parting ways with Jack Jones and losing Nate Hobbs in free agency, it’s clear the secondary remains under construction.
A First-Round Fix?
One potential solution may be hiding in plain sight.
Pro Football Network’s Brandon Austin recently suggested that the Raiders should explore trading for Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II—a former first-round pick whose role has diminished over the past year. Newsome, 25, was the 26th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and started 30 games across his first three seasons. But in 2024, he started just three games, allowed a 112.5 passer rating on 51 targets, and missed the final month due to injury.
While his production dipped last season, Newsome still has upside. He’s played both outside and in the slot, has solid athletic traits, and would immediately be one of the more experienced corners in Las Vegas’ young room. And with just one year remaining on his rookie deal—worth $13.37 million—the Browns could be open to moving him, especially if they’re willing to absorb some of the cost.
A change of scenery might be exactly what Newsome needs. And for a Raiders team still uncertain about its cornerback depth chart, the move could represent low risk and high reward.
Other Veteran Options Still Available For The Las Vegas Raiders
If Newsome proves too costly or the fit isn’t right, the Raiders could turn to a deep pool of veteran free agents still on the market. Familiar names like James Bradberry, Rasul Douglas, and Stephon Gilmore remain unsigned and could provide immediate leadership and stability. Shaquill Griffin, a former Carroll disciple in Seattle, could also be a seamless cultural and schematic fit.