Originally published by RaidersNewswire.com
There is a lot of optimism surrounding the Las Vegas Raiders heading into the 2022 NFL season. Much of this has to do with the additions the team made in receiver Davante Adams and pass rusher Chandler Jones. A very underrated, though extremely important addition, is defensive back Rock Ya-Sin.
A former second-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts, Ya-Sin was brought in to help fortify the Raiders’ secondary, especially after the team lost both Casey Hayward and Brandon Facyson in free agency.
As it currently stands Ya-Sin, Nate Hobbs and Trayvon Mullen look to be the team’s top three cornerbacks. And Hobbs recently spoke on Rock Ya-Sin’s work ethic and how it has helped him as well:
“I think Rock is very underrated,” Hobbs said of his new teammate. “I think Rock is one of the most competitive guys I’ve ever met. His routine I feel like is unmatched. I haven’t seen a routine like that. He continues to be the same person every day. He puts the work in on the field and off the field, and he pushes me to be a better player and a better teammate. I love him for that.”
What can really help a team is having players that regularly push each other to be better. That work ethic, support, and accountability from teammates can only have a positive impact and for Hobbs to already be affected in that way is a great sign of what Ya-Sin brings to this team.
The Raiders’ secondary is one of the main concerns for the team heading into this season. Last year the team was middle of the road in terms of passing yards allowed but ranked dead last in interceptions, something the team must greatly improve upon this season.
Takeaways are not something Ya-Sin has thrived in throughout his career so far, as he totaled just two interceptions in three seasons with the Colts. But the opportunities for all of the Raiders corners should be there with Jones and Crosby wreaking havoc in the backfield.
With the work that they are putting in, it sounds as if they will be ready to pounce on those opportunities when they present themselves.
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