Las Vegas, Nevada — The Las Vegas Raiders are sending a clear message about their Super Bowl ambitions by exploring the addition of former Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
After the preseason, Las Vegas’ defense showed some areas of concern, especially at the cornerback position.
The Raiders’ young defensive backs were expected to become key pieces of the secondary, but inconsistent performances have created questions heading into the new season.
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Although the coaching staff continues to express confidence in the young secondary, the Raiders understand championship teams need elite depth at every position.
Lattimore has emerged as an attractive option because he remains one of the most experienced cornerbacks available in the NFL.
The former New Orleans Saints star has earned four Pro Bowl selections and was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2017.
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Adding Lattimore would give Las Vegas another proven leader inside a young and developing defensive backfield.
At 30 years old, Lattimore may not be at the absolute peak of his career, but he still has the ability to impact important games.
His experience competing against elite wide receivers throughout the NFL would provide exactly what Las Vegas needs during a championship pursuit.
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Several analysts believe the Raiders need another cornerback capable of consistently winning in man coverage at the highest level.
Raiders analysts have emphasized that Las Vegas’ secondary must become stronger if the team wants to make a deep playoff run.
“The Raiders’ secondary and especially that cornerback position need to be strong. There are some real concerns about the young players. They have the speed, the movement skills, and the athletic ability, but they’ve been struggling against receivers who play with physicality.”
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Lattimore remains a free agent after suffering an ACL injury late last season.
While he may not be ready to contribute immediately, Las Vegas believes he could become a major difference-maker later in the year.
The Raiders’ issue is not a lack of young talent, but rather the need for veteran experience in critical moments.
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Las Vegas has already invested in several young defensive backs to build long-term depth.
However, adding a proven playoff defender could accelerate the development of those younger players.
The Raiders understand cornerback is one of the NFL’s premium positions, where mistakes are quickly exposed.
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The Raiders do not want their championship ambitions derailed because their defense struggles against elite offenses.
Bringing in Lattimore would create stronger competition and reduce pressure on Las Vegas’ younger cornerbacks during their development.
The coaching staff still believes in its young defensive backs, but championship teams always need high-level insurance options.
If the move happens, Marshon Lattimore could become the final piece that helps transform Las Vegas’ defense into a true Super Bowl-caliber unit.
