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New Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton asked for something in his rookie season that he may end up regretting

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated May 20, 2025 12:44 PM ET

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton, a former Tennessee Vols standout who was selected in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, asked for a matchup in his rookie season that he may end up regretting.

Shortly before Thornton was selected by the Raiders in this year's draft, he was asked who he wants to "one v one" in the NFL.

Thornton quickly named Houston Texans Pro Bowl cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.

"Derek Stingley," said Thornton during his draft vlog on which cornerback in the NFL he wants to be matched up against. "I like my chances."

"Because he plays on my favorite team," added Thornton when asked why he wants to match up against Stingley. "Or what was my favorite team. When I get drafted, that'll be my favorite team."

Going up against Stingley is a tough matchup for any wide receiver in the NFL. Thornton is a talented player, and I'm certainly not doubting his ability to excel in the NFL, but Stingley spent three seasons in the SEC at LSU, went up against Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson daily as a true freshman in Baton Rouge, and has three years of experience in the NFL. The Louisiana native was recently rewarded by the Texans with a three year extension worth $90 million (making him the highest paid cornerback in the NFL). Suffice it to say, Stingley is one of the best cornerbacks on the planet right now.

Thornton, by the way, will get his wish in 2025. The Raiders are set to play the Texans in Week 16 in Houston.

That should be a fun a matchup to watch -- especially since Thornton will have almost an entire season of NFL experience under his belt by the time he runs into Stingley on the field.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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