2. Keisean Nixon, CB
Entering training camp, undrafted rookie Keisean Nixon looked like a longshot to make the final 53-man roster. But a string of impressive performances and some increased opportunities later have made it look more and more likely that Nixon plays himself on to the team.
The South Carolina product put together another fine outing on Thursday night notching two pass breakups and holding up well in coverage. Multiple times Nixon was tested deep and each time the Packers came up empty.
This comes on the heels of another impressive outing last week against the Arizona Cardinals. And with one preseason game remaining, it isn’t a stretch to say that Nixon has been the Raiders’ top reserve defensive back.
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Four cornerbacks should already be guaranteed roster spots — not counting hybrid defensive backLamarcus Joyner— withGareon ConleyandDaryl Worleyholding down the starting roles and rookiesTrayvon MullenandIsaiah Johnsonrounding out the depth.
But the suspension toNevin Lawsonhas created an opportunity for a player like Nixon.
Lawson will be suspended for the first four games of the season and will not count towards the roster during his absence. Even before his suspension, Lawson wasn’t guaranteed a roster spot so don’t be surprised to see Nixon stick around well into the season.
Another standout performance in Week 4 of the preseason would only solidify his roster status. But for now, his roster hopes are looking pretty good.
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