The Las Vegas Raiders aim to bolster their roster through the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Antonio Pierce. With Pierce at the helm, the team is eager to identify talent that aligns with their culture. Building on the positive momentum from the conclusion of the 2023-24 season, the Raiders aspire to add players who can propel them into playoff contention on both the offensive and defensive fronts.
Among the prospective additions is Auburn safety Jaylin Simpson, who recently declared for the draft and is set to showcase his skills at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala. Simpson, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 178 pounds, embodies the physical attributes of an NFL safety. His collegiate career at Auburn, culminating in 116 total tackles, four tackles for loss, 14 passes defended, and seven interceptions, earned him the distinction of being named First-Team All-SEC in the previous season.
Simpson’s on-field performance demonstrates his proficiency as a well-rounded defensive back excelling in both run defense and coverage. Pro Football Focus statistics reveal that he was targeted 25 times, allowing just 15 completions for 151 yards and a solitary touchdown. Despite his slender physique, Simpson’s speed enables him to excel as a run defender, covering significant ground and minimizing gains for ball carriers.
While Simpson showcases strengths in coverage and run defense, he occasionally bites on routes, leading to big plays. Additionally, concerns exist about his technical refinement despite his extensive college experience. Projected as a day three selection, Simpson is expected to enhance his draft stock with a strong showing at the NFL Scouting Combine from February 27 to March 4, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.
If the Raiders are in search of an athletic safety adept at shutting down the run and covering receivers downfield, Simpson emerges as a promising prospect. The NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024, with the Las Vegas Raiders holding the No. 13 overall pick.
