The Las Vegas Raiders pulled off a 26-23 upset against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 2, leveling their record at 1-1 for the season. However, the team still faces weaknesses at quarterback and in the secondary. Bleacher Report has identified cornerback as the Raiders’ third most crucial roster need going into Week 3 and has urged the team to sign free agent Xavien Howard. Released by the Miami Dolphins at the beginning of the 2024 league year, Howard, a four-time Pro Bowler, was expected to attract considerable interest, but no team has signed him yet.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine expressed surprise that Howard remains unsigned, noting that despite injury concerns, he has performed well when healthy—something the Raiders’ young secondary could benefit from. If players like Jakorian Bennett don’t step up, Howard could be a valuable addition. Before his release, the 31-year-old played two seasons of a five-year, $90 million contract with Miami and has had standout moments in his career, including leading the league in interceptions and pass breakups in 2020. However, in the last two seasons, he has only managed one interception, 12 pass deflections, and 45 tackles each year.
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