The Oakland Raiders made some splashes in free agency this offseason, such as trading for Antonio Brown, signing Trent Brown to the largest contract for an offensive lineman in NFL history, etc. However, one move that hasn’t received enough attention is the signing of veteran defensive back Lamarcus Joyner.
Bringing in Joyner has allowed Oakland to do several exciting things on defense, such as playing safeties Johnathan Abram and Karl Joseph at the same time. But he also gives the unit a veteran, proven leader for the young players to model.
In a recent piece by Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com, Joyner was listed as the Raiders’ biggest training camp surprise. While everyone knows how talented Joyner is, he has reminded the league once again that he is one of the most valuable defensive backs in the NFL. Take a look at Rosenthal’s thoughts on the defensive back below:
Of all the big names and personalities added to the Oakland roster, no one had a more impressive month than overlooked free-agent signee Lamarcus Joyner. His toughness and versatility are just what this secondary needed. There’s no question this roster has more talent than a year ago, with a rookie class and free-agent group that will both play tons of snaps. In other words, new GM Mike Mayock has a chance to look like a hero.
If Joyner can be the same player he was with the Rams, he should be a borderline Pro-Bowl selection for the Raiders this season. Look for Joyner to have a career year in Oakland in 2019.
