Raiders Defensive Backfield Searching for Consistency

The Las Vegas Raiders have had a lot of movement in their defensive backfield for various reasons. Injuries have been one of the many issues that have plagued the unit. 

Another issue is the inconsistent play of their young backfield. Nearly all of Las Vegas' defensive backs have been in the league for three seasons or less.

In today's National Football League, where offenses are moving the ball at a never-before-seen rate, Defensive Back/Pass Game Coordinator Jason Simmons says he and Las Vegas' coaching staff are looking for consistency from the younger players. 

"Just a level of consistency," Simmons said. "That's the one thing we're all looking for that (Defensive Coordinator) Pat Graham preaches for all of us." 

Coming out of the bye week, the Raiders continue to emphasize proper fundamentals in an effort to keep improving.

"We just talk about stance, leverage, and eyes in our room," Simmons said. "We know when we do that, the amount of talent in that room, we'll find the football, and we'll play better." 

Simmons shared that the most significant area of growth so far has been the production the Raiders have gotten from lesser-known players. 

"I'll tell you what, it's really the group as a whole," Simmons said. "When you come in and see the guys right there, not huge names in this league, but they are guys who have an abundance of talent, guys who have stepped into different situations.

"We've shuffled guys around; guys have been professionals. They've approached it day-to-day as pros. I'm just really happy about the group as a whole."