The Las Vegas Raiders' Pete Carroll has built a reputation for building through the draft. During his time in Seattle, he built one of the greatest defenses of all time, drafting players who fit his defensive scheme.
Carroll has not changed much from this philosophy over the years. While there have been exceptions at certain spots, he continues to select players who fit his vision for the defense.
In this year's NFL draft, the Raiders have needs at linebacker and cornerback. However, the trenches are a place John Spytek and Carroll take seriously, and there could be an addition to the defensive line at tackle or edge.
There are options all over the draft with prospects who fit the bill of a Carroll defensive player. What are the requirements? One of the most well-known is arm length with cornerbacks.
Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner were key to the strength of the Legion of Boom. While either one was the fastest player on the field, both had the length that Carroll desires to play outside numbers. It has changed slightly for Carroll over his last few years in Seattle, which can give a gauge of where he might go in the draft. Let’s take a look at a few players who fit the requirements of a usual Carroll cornerback
Shavon Revel Jr. CB, East Carolina
Shavon Revel Jr is the highest who fits the bill. He is 6’2 194 pounds, 32 5/8 " arms. Revel Jr. was heralded as a first-round pick entering, but was sidelined with an injury after just three games. The East Carolina cornerback had two interceptions during his three appearances last season. He excels in zone defense, demonstrating an understanding of coverages and being a playmaker with the hip flexibility not typically found in a player of his size. He could be an option at 37 for the Raiders.
Darien Porter CB, Iowa State
Darian Porter from Iowa State has the longest arms of any corner in this draft. His 33-inch arms, combined with his 4.3 speed, will make him intriguing to Carroll. Porter is excellent in press coverage and allowed five receptions all year. However, Porter is an older player who didn't break out until his final season in college football. He will be 25 years old when the season starts and might fall into the third round even with his ball production.
Zah Frazier CB, UTSA
In the later rounds, there is Zah Frazier from the University of Texas at El Paso. Frazier has a similar profile to 2022 fifth-round pick Tyreke Johnson, who attended the same school. Frazier had a breakout season, recording six interceptions, which set a school record. He is stiff and will struggle with elusive route runners, but he excels in press coverage. With 32 7/8 arms at 6’4 while also running a 4.36, there could be a chance Carroll takes the same route on day three.