It’s never easy to lose the first game of the season. That is especially true when it comes on the primetime stage of Monday Night Football to a division rival. But that’s what happened to the Raiders in Week 4 against the Chargers.
While the loss stings for the Raiders, it’s proven to be a costly defeat on multiple fronts. During the game, the Raiders lost not one, not two, but three cornerbacks due to injuries.
Trayvon Mullen left in the first drive of the game due to a foot injury. He was carted off the field and was eventually ruled out by the team. Given how quickly he was ruled out, it’s fair to wonder just how serious the injury might be.
Damon Arnette, who replaced Mullen, was quickly ruled out with a groin injury. While the severity of the injury isn’t known, the short week likely means he won’t be available for Week 5 either.
Finally, Nate Hobbs was evaluated for a concussion late in the fourth quarter. He did not return to the field and it’s not quite clear if he did suffer a concussion. If he did, it seems unlikely that he will be available on Sunday given the short turnaround.
Heading into Week 5, the Raiders will likely be down three of their top four cornerbacks. Expect the team to make multiple roster moves before next Sunday’s game and for Casey Heyward Jr. and Amik Robertson to open the game as their starters against the Bears.
