Oakland Raiders: More big names to target during 2019 NFL free agency

Landon Collins, SS, New York Giants

There’s a reason the Raiders’ fielded an awful pass defense in 2018, and it had nothing to do with Gareon Conley. Although more talent is needed at cornerback, folks seem to be ignoring the fact that both safety positions could use an upgrade heading into 2019.

The Raiders could wait until the 2019 NFL Draft to address the position, which may very well end up being the approach they employ. However, with so many high-caliber safeties set to hit free agency in March, it almost makes too much sense for Oakland to at least consider signing a big-name veteran instead.

One I’m particularly fond of is Landon Collins, who somehow has become an underrated talent. Coming off a down year (relatively), the New York Giants’ sensational safety is still one of the best in the NFL at his position. An instinctive cover man and punishing run defender, he’d improve the Raiders defense tenfold the second he stepped onto the field.

Just look at his resume if you’re not convinced. Through his first four years in the league, Collins has been named to the Pro Bowl three times, earned one All-Pro honor and is routinely named among the NFL’s most feared safeties. His 428 total tackles, four sacks, eight interceptions and 32 deflected passes provide further evidence of his immense talent.

Collins won’t come cheap, but may carry a slight discount after a bumpy 2018 campaign. If the Raiders do manage to earn his signature, they’d be very happy with the end results.