Raiders still have the same issue they had last week at OTAs, but it’s still not something they should be worried about
The Las Vegas Raiders have had a successful offseason and have carried that over to OTAs last week and this week.
Las Vegas Raiders fans are anxious over developments during OTAs. While it’s not yet mandatory minicamp, OTAs are a good way to gauge who will be available for it. OTAs are not mandatory, but it’s encouraged that you are present. One of the Raiders’ new secondary players has not been.
Rumors and partial reports claim new Raiders defensive back Taron Johnson is seeking more guaranteed money on his contract, which is reportedly why he hasn’t attended OTAs. Vegas just traded for him this offseason from the Buffalo Bills. When healthy—a key factor—he can play at an elite level.
This has led fans to worry about his availability for training camp, since Johnson is set to start at nickel. Johnson and Nakobe Dean weren’t at OTAs last week, and they haven’t been this week either. Recently, head coach Klint Kubiak addressed the matter and offered reassurance.
Klint Kubiak addressed the attendance issue at OTAs last week
“Yeah, shoot, it’s a voluntary time of year, can’t wait to get those guys [LB Nakobe Dean also not at OTAs] back. Really fired up for the guys that are here, but have been in contact with both of those guys and they’ve been doing a great job, some here, some away,” Kubiak told reporters last week.
Dean not being there isn’t as big a deal. He just signed with the Raiders in the offseason, so his absence isn’t because he’s asking for any money or anything like that. Johnson, on the other hand, is asking for more money.
Should Johnson remain absent and no agreement is reached, the Raiders will need to address their nickel position. They might elevate Greedy Vance, who performed decently as an undrafted free agent last season, or shift a safety with starting experience into the nickel role. If Johnson doesn’t show up for training camp because the deal isn’t done yet, then you should be worried. Right now, there is no reason to worry. The two sides are likely talking about a possible deal as we speak.
Jermod McCoy was also absent, as far as everyone at practice could tell. However, I wouldn’t make too big a deal of thaat one. McCoy has been at OTAs so far, and this is the first day he’s not been seen on the field. With his knee issue, he’s likely inside the facility getting some work done or doing something else for the Raiders.