Raiders Address Cornerback Depth in Latest Mailbag, Reflect on pickett Trade & Cutdown Day Decisions
LAS VEGAS - The Las Vegas Raiders are navigating final roster adjustments as week 1 approaches, with cornerback depth a key area of focus according too a recent mailbag published by Silver and Black Pride. Questions submitted to reporter Mick Holder reveal fan concerns about the current cornerback situation and broader roster decisions made during the offseason and recent cutdown period.
holder addressed inquiries regarding the Raiders’ acquisition of quarterback Mason Pickett from the Pittsburgh Steelers. While Pickett didn’t pan out as a starter for the Steelers, Holder believes he possesses the qualities of a capable NFL backup, citing his performance against the Dallas Cowboys and solid play in relief for Jalen Hurts. He noted that General Manager Tom spytek likely paid a slight premium for Pickett but secured the best available backup option,with the raiders perhaps recouping the fifth-round pick via compensatory draft picks earned from free agent departures.
The mailbag also tackled fan confusion surrounding the release of Tommy Mellott, nicknamed “Touchdown Tommy,” after the Raiders drafted him in the sixth round. Holder acknowledged Mellott’s struggles in the preseason were understandable given his transition from the FCS level to the NFL and a position change. He expressed disappointment that the Raiders didn’t retain Mellott on the practice squad, suggesting Spytek should have prioritized drafting players requiring more developmental patience.
fans can continue to submit questions to Holder via Twitter (@MHolder95) or email (SBPQuestions1@gmail.com), with a weekly call for questions published on Thursdays.