Las Vegas Raiders 2026 Draft Scouting: Nickel Cornerbacks

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers defensive back D'Angelo Ponds (5) against the Miami Hurricanes in the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J.

Rebilas-Imagn Images The Las Vegas Raiders traded for Bills cornerback Taron Johnson, who’s coming off back to back seasons with some regression, though a transition in the system for Buffalo could be as a result as well. Johnson, turns 30 in July, and the 5’11/192 pounder has been widely concerned as one of the better nickel cornerbacks in the NFL. Johnson logged 57 tackles, a TFL, and 5 PBU in 13 games with 8 starts while allowing 42 receptions (63 targets), 398 yards, 2 TD, and a 94.

6 QBR. Johnson’s biggest knock has been health, as he’s missed 9 games the last two seasons though he’s remained a high end tackler with just a career 12. 2% missed tackle rate including sub 10% the last three seasons.

Alongside of Johnson, Las Vegas doesn’t have any true nickel cornerbacks on the roster outside of 2025 UDFA Greedy Vance, who did appear in six games logging 9 tackles, a QB hit, and one pass breakup. Additionally, Vance allowed 7 receptions, 69 yards, and a 98. 6 QBR on 10 targets with an 11.