Raiders NFL Draft Prospect: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson

The Las Vegas Raiders could strike gold with Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Las Vegas Raiders are going to spend the offseason looking for ways to improve the team. One of those methods will be through the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Raiders have a new regime with Coach Antonio Pierce and General Manager Tom Telesco, so the team will be looking for players who fit the culture the team wants to establish.

There are several talented defensive players in this draft the Raiders could add to bolster their already strong defense. Under Pierce, the Raiders played like one of the best defensive teams in the league.

What could truly accelerate the Raiders’ defense is having a true No. 1 cornerback. They have several solid players at that position but could be in the hunt for a star.

One player who could fit that mold is Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins. Arguably the top cornerback prospect among a crop of talented defensive backs, Wiggins was a First-Team All-ACC member in 2023.

Wiggins finished his Tigers career with 60 total tackles, three tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, 21 passes defended, and three interceptions.

Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins could be an excellent fit for the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2024 NFL Draft / Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports

On tape, Wiggins looks like a true No. 1 outside corner. He is tall at 6-foot-2 and weighs 185 pounds. His height and length make it challenging for receivers to separate when he is in coverage, and he plays with an edge that allows him to flash as a solid run defender.

Beyond the tape, Wiggins is a competitor. He often gets extra physical with his match-up after the whistle, showing a competitive edge required to be a star in the NFL.

Wiggins may be the best pure coverage corner in the draft. According to Pro Football Focus, he was targeted 41 times and allowed just 18 receptions for 176 yards and just one touchdown. He uses his long arms to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage and great footwork to mirror them.

Wiggins’ physicality could be to his detriment, however. He flashes in the run game, but it is not consistent. He may need to add to his thin frame to be an above-average run defender. He also may struggle against some of the league’s bigger receivers.

Wiggins has the tools and competitive edge to be a franchise cornerback. He may be available for the Raiders at No. 13, and they could select him to put their defense over the top. 

From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.

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