Former 2013 first round pick D.J. Hayden has been a complete bust ever since being selected by the team 12th overall. Even after the team declined his 5th year option it appears the Raiders are not giving up on the former University of Houston cornerback.
“DJ Hayden had a really good spring. He really did,” Del Rio raved this week, via the San Francisco Chronicle. “I’m excited about his development.”
Of course Hayden will have his work cut out for him just in order to make the team. The Raiders added David Amerson and Sean Smith in the past year. T.J. Carrie and Neiko Thorpe are his competition for the nickel slot. The Raiders of course are looking to make the playoffs and could use Hayden’s contribution. Coach Jack Del Rio is still remaining confident that it isn’t too late for Hayden to turn things around.
“As a player, it’s never too late,” Del Rio offered. “You can redefine yourself, turn the corner and peel labels off that maybe people have for you and create your own. I feel like he’s on his way to doing that this year.”
