How much has the Raiders defense improved this year?
So much that they have reserves on the roster pushing for playing time despite their limited roles as backups.
Through 12 games this year, the Raiders have two backups that are grading considerably higher (Pro Football Focus) than the starters at their respective positions.
Let’s take a look at both…
Luke Masterson, PFF Season Grade: 88.1
Masterson has been on the field for 157 defensive snaps this year and has the second-highest Pro Football Focus grade on the team, behind only Maxx Crosby (91.8).
Masterson is tied with Tyler Hall for the highest coverage grade on the team (82.0) and leads the team in forced fumbles (2).
One of those forced fumbles came in week 11 against the Dolphins on one of the best efforts we’ve seen all year from a Raider defender…
Masterson came to the Raiders last year as an undrafted free agent and in his second season with the team he has developed into one of the better backup linebackers in the league.
He has one more year on the three-year deal he signed as a rookie, and will be a restricted free agent in 2025.
Tyler Hall, PFF Season Grade: 80.0
The aforementioned Hall has played 136 defensive snaps this year and that sample size is enough to legitimize his third-highest grade among defensive players on the roster (technically, Janarius Robinson ranks third, but he has only 3 defensive snaps on the season).
Hall is tied for the highest coverage grade on the team, and he has the highest tackling grade (79.8) on the team.
That’s a combination that should get the Raiders fourth-year cornerback on the field more in the final five games of the season.
This tackle by Hall on Breece Hall, who is one of the most elusive runners in the league, probably saved a touchdown against the Jets in week 10..
Hall will be a restricted free agent after the season and should be a player the Raiders try to hold onto if they can.
twitter: @raidersbeat
I completely agree!
Peters should’ve been benched 5 weeks ago. Hall had one game he struggled then he was on point then benched when Hobbs came back. Amik and Hall have been the most consistent in coverage.
Bat has been better than everyone except Spillane. Burney should also get more snaps.
I totally agree I know at one time Hall was hurt this season b’cuz he’s not scared to tackle 🩶🖤🏴☠️☠️💯
It’s obvious watching from my coach in the living room. You can see the D get better when either one gets on the field.
No brainer to sign to 2-3 year deals. Weakens the organization by letting the developed players walk.
I would like to see Sam Webb get a fair chance to show what he can do. He’s done really well except for one game last year against Denver. He was back on ST only after giving up two receptions. IMO he’s the best comer we have inside ten yards of the LOS.