The Raiders’ biggest defensive problem is not simply that they need to tackle better. They have been allowing too many yards on the ground and through the air, and opponents have been turning those yards into touchdowns.
Through their first six games, the Raiders were allowing 27 points per game. Here are the areas I would focus on to improve the defense.
The Raiders’ Three
Biggest Defensive Weaknesses
1. Run defense — the biggest concern
The Raiders were allowing approximately 134 rushing yards per game, ranking near the bottom of the NFL. Opposing running backs have been gaining too much ground, putting pressure on the linebackers and secondary.
What needs to change:
- Rotate defensive linemen more frequently to keep them fresh.
- Give the best run-stoppers more playing time.
- Improve linebacker positioning and gap discipline.
- Bring a safety closer to the line of scrimmage in selected situations.
My priority would be acquiring a strong defensive tackle who can occupy blockers and make it harder for running backs to reach the second level.
2. Pass defense — too many completions and big plays
The Raiders were allowing approximately 237 passing yards per game. Their cornerbacks and safeties need to do a better job limiting easy completions and preventing receivers from getting open downfield.
What needs to change:
- Use more two-deep safety coverage when appropriate.
- Give struggling cornerbacks fewer snaps if a reserve is performing better.
- Provide additional help against opposing teams’ best receivers.
- Mix up defensive formations so opposing quarterbacks cannot predict the coverage.
The trade-off is that extra help in pass coverage can leave the defense more vulnerable to the run. The coaches need to adjust based on the opponent and the situation.
3. Red-zone defense —
force more field goals
The Raiders were allowing opponents to score touchdowns on too many trips inside the 20-yard line.
What needs to change:
- Tighten coverage near the goal line.
- Use more physical, disciplined run defense.
- Make opposing quarterbacks throw into tighter windows.
- Emphasize finishing tackles and preventing second-effort touchdowns.
Forcing an opponent to kick a field goal instead of scoring a touchdown can make the difference between winning and losing a close game.
Can the Raiders Change Their Players?
Absolutely. They can change starters, increase the playing time of backups, rotate defensive linemen, and experiment with different formations without making a trade.
Here are the positions
I would review most closely:
Defensive tackle: Adam Butler, Tonka Hemingway, Folorunso Fatukasi, Jonah Laulu, and JJ Pegues.
Linebacker: Nakobe Dean, Quay Walker, Tommy Eichenberg, and Cody Lindenberg.
Cornerback: Eric Stokes, Darien Porter, Taron Johnson, Jermod McCoy, and Darrell Luter Jr.
Safety: Jeremy Chinn, Treydan Stukes, Isaiah Pola-Mao, and Dalton Johnson.
These are players and positions to evaluate, not a claim that a particular backup is automatically better than a starter. Coaches should compare practice performance, missed tackles, coverage results, and game film before making changes.
What About Maxx Crosby?
Maxx Crosby remains a major defensive weapon. I would move him around the defensive line on selected plays, use more stunts and twists, and try to keep him fresh for crucial third-down situations.
The objective should not simply be to increase his sack total. The defense needs to create hurried throws, force turnovers, and get opposing offenses off the field.
Could the Raiders Trade for Somebody?
Yes. The NFL trade deadline is November 10, 2026, so the Raiders have an opportunity to add help before the deadline.
My trade priorities would be:
1. A proven run-stopping defensive tackle. This would be my first choice because the interior run defense has been a major weakness.
2. A dependable starting cornerback. If the coaches determine that coverage is the primary problem, a veteran corner could help reduce the number of easy completions and big plays.
3. An additional pass rusher, if the right deal becomes available. The Raiders had recorded 15 sacks through six games, so I would prioritize the run defense and coverage ahead of adding another pass rusher.
The Raiders would need to consider the player’s salary, the draft picks required, and whether the player is actually available. I have not verified a specific trade target who is currently available at a reasonable price.
Can the Defense Be Fixed This Season?
I believe meaningful improvement is possible. The Raiders have shown they can compete in games, and they have recorded sacks and created turnovers. However, allowing 27 points per game and struggling to stop the run are serious concerns.
My recommendation:
First, change the defensive rotation and make adjustments to the scheme immediately. Second, evaluate whether any backups deserve more playing time. Third, pursue a proven run-stopping defensive tackle or a starting-caliber cornerback if a reasonable trade becomes available.
I would not dismantle the defense or sacrifice valuable future draft picks after only six games. But I also would not keep doing the same things and expect different results.
The Raiders need to demonstrate that their coaching staff can identify the problems, make adjustments, and get better. Otherwise, their playoff hopes will become increasingly difficult to sustain.
Sources and links
NFL.com — Las Vegas Raiders schedule and results:
Las Vegas Raiders — Team statistics:
ESPN — NFL team defensive statistics:
NFL.com — NFL news and trade deadline coverage:
