Raiders' $7.8 Million Starter Poised To Replace Vikings' Harrison Smith
The Las Vegas Raiders have signed former Minnesota Vikings safety Johnathan Abram to a one-year, $7.8 million contract, making him the highest-paid safety in the NFL on a per-year basis. Abram is expected to start alongside Tre'von Moehrig in the Raiders' secondary, replacing the departed Harrison Smith.
Abram, 26, was a first-round pick by the Raiders in 2019 and has started 40 games in his career. He has recorded 263 tackles, 10 interceptions, and five forced fumbles. Smith, 34, is a seven-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro selection. He has been a mainstay in the Vikings' defense for the past decade.
The Raiders' decision to sign Abram to such a lucrative contract is a sign of their belief in his potential. Abram is a physical and aggressive safety who is known for his ability to make big hits. He is also a good tackler and has a knack for making turnovers.
However, Abram has also been criticized for his lack of discipline. He has been ejected from two games in his career and has been fined for several other incidents. The Raiders will need Abram to be more disciplined if he is going to be a successful replacement for Smith.
Different Perspectives on the Raiders' Signing of Abram
There are different perspectives on the Raiders' signing of Abram. Some believe that he is a rising star who has the potential to be one of the best safeties in the NFL. Others believe that he is a reckless player who is more likely to hurt his team than help it.
Those who believe that Abram is a rising star point to his impressive physical tools and his ability to make big plays. They also believe that he is still young and has room to grow. Those who believe that Abram is a reckless player point to his history of discipline problems. They also believe that he is not a good tackler and that he is more likely to give up big plays than make them.
Data Points and Real-Life Examples
The following data points and real-life examples support the different perspectives on the Raiders' signing of Abram:
Conclusion
The Raiders' signing of Abram is a gamble. He is a talented player with the potential to be a star, but he also has a history of discipline problems. The Raiders will need Abram to be more disciplined if he is going to be a successful replacement for Smith. Only time will tell if Abram can live up to the Raiders' expectations.
The signing of Abram also has broader implications for the Raiders' defense. The Raiders have a young and talented defense, but they need to be more consistent if they want to be a contender. Abram has the potential to be a difference-maker for the Raiders, but he needs to be able to stay on the field and play within the rules.
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