The Las Vegas Raiders’ 2023 NFL season has started slowly. They have had one win and three losses. As a result, they are now third in the AFC West. Although the Raiders have shown some encouraging signals, there is certainly opportunity for improvement. In this article, we will determine the two greatest transactions that the Las Vegas Raiders must make before the 2023 NFL trade deadline in order to increase their playoff chances.

The Raiders have not had the desired start to the 2023 NFL season. They are currently 1-3 in their division, trailing the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers. The Raiders began the season with a 17-16 victory over the Denver Broncos, but then fell to the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Los Angeles Chargers in their next three games.

On offense, the Raiders have shown some hopeful signs. They have not been consistent, however, due to quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s injuries. However, the defense has faltered at times, allowing 25.3 points per game on average. In terms of scoring defense, they currently rank in the lowest ten clubs. If the Raiders are to make the playoffs this season, they must improve on all sides of the ball.

Two best trades that the Las Vegas Raiders must make before the 2023 NFL trade deadline

Trade for a veteran cornerback

The Las Vegas Raiders should make two strategic moves to bolster their club before the 2023 NFL trade deadline. First, considering their troubles at cornerback owing to injuries, they should look for a veteran. Stephon Gilmore of the Dallas Cowboys is one possible addition. Remember that he’s a former Defensive Player of the Year who might help the Raiders’ secondary substantially. If the Gilmore deal goes through, the Chicago Bears’ Jaylon Johnson, a competent cover corner, may be pursued. Either of these excellent cornerbacks would significantly improve the Raiders’ defense. This is especially true given their current injury difficulties in the secondary.

Trade Josh Jacobs

The Raiders could also consider trading top running back Josh Jacobs to the Arizona Cardinals. With their quarterback position unsettled, the Cardinals face offensive issues. As a result, they are an excellent trading partner. Jacobs, the Raiders’ leading rusher last season, has underwhelmed in their first four games. He currently has 166 rushing yards on 62 carries. That equates to an average of 2.7 yards per carry. A change of scenery might be beneficial to him. Meanwhile, the Raiders may benefit from giving someone like Zamir White more opportunity. White presently averages 4.9 yards per carry.