The Las Vegas Raiders still have an emerging asset in CB Jakorian Bennett

The Las Vegas Raiders selected cornerback Jakorian Bennett in the fourth round of last year’s NFL Draft.

Bennett, while talented, had his ups and downs during his first season in the National Football League. He would start multiple games for the Raiders last season before his subpar play forced the Raiders to replace him, which eventually led to the emergence of cornerback Jack Jones.

Bennett, like many rookie cornerbacks, struggled last season. According to Pro Football Focus, Bennett earned a 42.4 overall grade last season. While the Raiders coaching staff publicly supported the young cornerback last season and has continued to do so this offseason, he undoubtedly had plenty of room for improvement as he heads into his second season in the NFL.

Cornerback, however, is likely one of the most challenging positions, especially for a rookie. The Raiders hope that is the case for Bennett, as his improvement will likely solidify the Raiders defense as one of the best in the league this coming season.

Raiders cornerbacks coach Ricky Manning said earlier this offseason that he believes the cornerback will improve in his second year.

“I think the biggest thing for him right now is that he’s not under fire anymore,” Manning said. “You know, as a rookie, you get thrown out — I’ve been in the same situation. You’re under fire and you’re still learning as you go.

“Now he has a much better understanding of the defense, of Coach (Patrick) Graham and how he calls it, and the game,” Manning said. “So, it’s slowed down a little bit for him now, so now he can really work on that development, and he can really get better at the things that he needs to focus on. And he’s doing that. He keeps working. Is he ready? Absolutely. We still have time to go, we still have time to prepare. And every day we’re trying to get better. Every guy in that room, regardless of where they are, and he’s a part of that too.”

There’s often talk about how much improvement players can make from their first season in the league to their second. The Raiders hope that’s the case for Bennett, as his improvement would likely solidify the Raiders’ defense as one of the best in the league this coming season.

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