Sean Smith was supposed to be one of the cornerstones of the Raiders defense after signing a four-year, $40 million deal.
Following an up and down 2016 season, Smith set out to re-establish himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the league, but first he’ll have to re-establish himself as one of the top cornerbacks on the team.
According to Michael Gehlkin of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Smith has been practicing with the Raiders second team (which has been the case for several days) and on Sunday took reps at linebacker in a dime sub-package.
The Raiders have struggled to defend tight ends in recent years and with Smith’s size (6’3, 215), it’s possible the coaches are thinking of using him in more of a hybrid role in certain passing situations.
It’s also possible the Raiders 30 year-old cornerback is falling out of favor with the coaching staff.
Whatever the case, Smith’s role on the team seems to be anything but determined. With first-round pick Gareon Conley – who may already be the best cornerback on the roster – expected to return soon, Smith’s return to the first team will become no less complicated.
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