Raiders' underrated defender is taking one area of his game to the next level that you don't see often
The Las Vegas Raiders have significantly bolstered their secondary depth compared to a year ago. This is partly due to the new talent they acquired through the draft, but also because of the marked improvement and development of their younger players. A prime example of this is Isaiah Pola-Mao, a third-year safety who has shown […]
The Las Vegas Raiders have significantly bolstered their secondary depth compared to a year ago. This is partly due to the new talent they acquired through the draft, but also because of the marked improvement and development of their younger players. A prime example of this is Isaiah Pola-Mao, a third-year safety who has shown substantial growth since last year. While he has yet to secure a starting position, his progress is undeniable.
Pola-Mao is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated defenders on the Raiders' roster. Last season, he made his mark on special teams, a common path for players like him to earn their place on the field. However, he also demonstrated his ability to make significant contributions on defense. His interception against the Miami Dolphins in Week 11 and the pick-six he scored against the Los Angeles Rams in the preseason are memorable examples of his game-changing potential.
Pola-Mao is poised to make a significant impact in 2024, largely due to his enhanced mental acuity on the field – a feat that is particularly impressive for a player of his age.
"The thing that Isaiah [Pola-Mao] is doing and really all of them, but more specifically talking about Isaiah, the game is slowing down for him because his ability to understand the game a little bit better, understanding the threats, understanding his responsibilities, understanding his keys and the way that he needs to react, and also himself as a communicator and just having a deeper understanding as we continue to move forward, as we continue to develop throughout this process to elevate his play and elevate our play," safeties coach Gerald Alexander said.
"He's been doing a good job this spring, and those are things that we're going to be relying on as he continues to develop for us in the very near future because he's going to be somebody that we're going to be looking to count on."
The Raiders like Pola-Mao because of what he brings to the table in terms of his IQ. He is as smart as it gets for a third-year safety. And he can play on special teams, and when his number is called to play defense, he's right there. I think the game slowing down for him is only going to help him so much in 2024.
This year could mark a pivotal moment for Pola-Mao. With the current starting safeties, Marcus Epps and Tre'Von Moehrig, set to become unrestricted free agents after this season, it's Pola-Mao's time to shine and prove his worth for that starting role. Keep a close eye on him in 2024.
Raiders DB Isaiah Palo-Mao shares his thoughts on crazy play vs. Rams
The young defensive back made a huge play.
