The 49ers attempted to acquire a young Raiders defensive star in a trade

The Las Vegas Raiders might have been sellers before the trade deadline, but following the firing of general manager Dave Ziegler, the franchise elected to stay put. It wasn’t due to a lack of enthusiasm for the team’s players.

According to Pro Football Network’s Adam Caplan, the San Francisco 49ers approached the Raiders about a trade for cornerback Nate Hobbs.

“[The 49ers] looked into several coverage players [at the trade deadline], including Bears CB Jaylon Johnson and other recognizable names such as Raiders versatile CB Nate Hobbs,” Caplan wrote in his column on November 27, 2017. “The Raiders regard Hobbs as one of their best defensive players and would not entertain trade talks.” Hobbs, who was originally drafted to play the slot in 2021, has demonstrated his ability to play both inside and outside over the last two seasons.”

Hobbs, 24, has developed as one of the Raiders’ top cornerbacks. He’s a piece they’d likely like to build the defense around rather than trade. With a Pro Football Focus score of 69.1, he is the team’s highest-graded cornerback, ranking 35th in the NFL overall.

Amik Robertson, the Raiders’ next highest-graded cornerback, is ranked 90th in the NFL. Hobbs should be in Las Vegas for a long time unless something drastic happens.

Nate Hobbs is confident in his defense.

The Raiders’ defense received a boost when interim head coach Antonio Pierce was promoted. They have limited three consecutive opponents to 20 points or fewer, including the No. 1 ranked Miami Dolphins offense.

Nate Hobbs is confident in the team’s defense.

“I think everybody understands their job and their role on the team,” Hobbs said at a media availability on November 24, according to The Athletic. “Everyone is unselfish… We also have such trust in one another. Like, genuine assurance. It’s not like I’m thinking, ‘Oh, I think he’ll do that.’ ‘I know if he’s on the field, he’ll do his job,’ says the coach.

In Week 12, the defense came crumbling down against the Kansas City Chiefs, allowing 31 points. The Raiders have a bye week before facing the Minnesota Vikings, who have severe quarterback difficulties. This should be an excellent game for the defense to get back on track.