Raiders Draft Prospect: Oregon Safety Steve Stephens IV

The Las Vegas Raiders are looking for young talent in the 2024 NFL Draft.

It is an exciting time in Las Vegas. The Raiders are beginning the Antonio Pierce-Tom Telesco era, and there is a hopeful feeling in the air that this regime will get the Raiders back to the top of the NFL.

The Raiders were outside the postseason in 2023-24 and are hoping that only a few new pieces can get them back to the playoffs.

One of those players could be Oregon safety Steve Stephens IV, who spent six seasons with the Ducks but recently declared for the draft. He finished his college career with 148 total tackles, four tackles for losses, a forced fumble, five passes defended and three interceptions.

Stephens is one of the most experienced safeties in the draft, having appeared in 45 games during his career. That experience could be enticing for the Raiders in the later rounds of the draft, as players like Stephens can contribute in minimal roles or on special teams. He was part of a talented Ducks’ secondary, including fellow draft prospect Evan Williams.

Stephens stands at 6-foot-1 and weighs 195 pounds. He looks like a blend of a safety and a slot cornerback on tape and might be able to play both positions at the next level, which could also be enticing to the Raiders.

Stephens is tall, long, and slender. He moves well with good speed and athleticism, which could translate in coverage in the NFL. He flashes good footwork and fluid hips, often taking the right angle in pursuit of the football.

In addition, Stephens also plays with enough physicality to defend the run, which should keep him on the field. He also is impressive in coverage, allowing only 17 receptions on 27 targets for 165 yards and no touchdowns. While he can play the run, his coverage ability may be his strongest suit.

However, Stephens is not technically refined and could struggle against the league’s best wide receivers. He must be more consistent with his technique to survive as a slot corner or safety in the NFL.

Stephens has the physical tools and motor to be a high-upside pick on the third day of the draft. If the Raiders want to add depth to their secondary, Stephens could be an intriguing fit.

From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.

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