Who Will Lead The Raiders in Interceptions?

The Las Vegas Raiders had a tough time turning teams over last season on defense, recording only six interceptions and seven fumble recoveries.

The Raiders know they have to force more turnovers in 2023 in order for the defense to improve, and that is why General Manager Dave Ziegler focused so heavily on adding defensive players in free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft.

The Raiders’ defensive back unit was nearly overhauled, as there are several new faces at both cornerback and safety on the team, including cornerbacks Duke Shelley and Jakorian Bennett, and safeties Marcus Epps and Christopher Smith II.

Today, we are going to take a look at the three likeliest candidates on the Raiders’ defense who can lead the team in interceptions in 2023.

Safety Marcus Epps -- Epps is one of the likeliest candidates due to his high football IQ and elite ball skills. Epps has three interceptions in his career, and while he did not have one last season, he defended six passes, so he is frequently around the football.

Joining Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham’s unit should be a boost for Epps, as Graham has coached several defensive backs who have great ball skills. Being around the ball more often could result in more interceptions for Epps in 2023.

Safety Tre’von Moehrig -- Moehrig is looking to bounce back from a rough 2022 season that saw his production drop off from his stellar rookie season. With Epps now on board, Moehrig will shoulder less of a load in the defensive backfield and will be able to play more freely.

Moehrig has only one interception in his career, but he did have five passes defended last season, and as he looks to bounce back, he could do so by getting his hands on more passes.

Cornerback Nate Hobbs -- Hobbs is looking to have a healthy 2023, as a broken hand marred his 2022 season. Hobbs was having a good season before his injury, and with a healthy left hand, could pick off more passes this season.

Hobbs had an interception in his rookie season, a clutch play against Washington quarterback Taylor Heinicke late in the fourth quarter. With a healthy season under his belt, he could bounce back in a big way.

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