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Raiders Draft Hezekiah Masses: A Deep Dive | Giants Sign Undrafted Rookies as Minicamp Kicks Off | Rob Gronkowski Reflects on 2020 Buccaneers as Best Skill-Set Team | Packers Release Veteran Kicker Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack | Browns' Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah to Miss 2026 Season Due to Neck Injury | Vikings Consider Keenan Allen After Jauan Jennings Update | NFL Top Games & Packers Schedule: 2026 Season | Colts Release Veteran Cornerback Kenny Moore II After Trade Request | Steelers Likely Destination for Aaron Rodgers in 2026 | Raiders Draft Hezekiah Masses: A Deep Dive | Giants Sign Undrafted Rookies as Minicamp Kicks Off | Rob Gronkowski Reflects on 2020 Buccaneers as Best Skill-Set Team | Packers Release Veteran Kicker Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack | Browns' Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah to Miss 2026 Season Due to Neck Injury | Vikings Consider Keenan Allen After Jauan Jennings Update | NFL Top Games & Packers Schedule: 2026 Season | Colts Release Veteran Cornerback Kenny Moore II After Trade Request | Steelers Likely Destination for Aaron Rodgers in 2026

NFL / Draft

Raiders Draft Hezekiah Masses: A Deep Dive

The Las Vegas Raiders have added Hezekiah Masses, a cornerback from the University of California, to their roster as the 175th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This move marks the fourth defensive back selected by the...

Raiders' Hezekiah Masses: Headed to Las Vegas
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Raiders Draft Hezekiah Masses: A Deep Dive Image via CBS Sports

Key Insights

  • **Draft Selection:** Hezekiah Masses was picked by the Raiders in the fifth round (175th overall).
  • **College Career:** Masses played at FIU for three years before transferring to Cal, where he excelled with 47 tackles, 13 pass deflections, and 5 interceptions in his senior year.
  • **Strengths:** Known for his strong cover skills and ball skills, leading the nation with 18 passes defended last season.
  • **Weaknesses:** Masses has a slender frame (6-1, 179 pounds) and needs to bulk up to improve his tackling and ability to get off blocks.
  • **Cal DB Streak:** Masses extends Cal's streak to seven consecutive years with a defensive back drafted into the NFL.

In-Depth Analysis

Hezekiah Masses brings a promising skillset to the Raiders, particularly his coverage abilities and knack for creating turnovers. His senior year at Cal showcased his potential, with impressive stats in passes defended and interceptions. Masses is projected to start in a depth role in 2026, with expectations to contribute on special teams as he develops physically. Masses was the only Cal player invited to the NFL Combine, further solidifying his draft profile. According to Scouts Inc., Masses possesses the speed (4.46 in the 40-yard dash) and body control to succeed at the next level and can be effective in both man and zone coverage.

However, his slender build raises concerns about his ability to handle the physicality of the NFL. Improving his tackling and run-stopping abilities will be crucial for him to earn a significant role on the Raiders' defense.

Cal has a strong tradition of producing NFL defensive backs. Nnamdi Asomugha, a former Cal star, was a first-round pick by the Oakland Raiders in 2003 and became an All-Pro selection.

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FAQ

- **Q: What are Hezekiah Masses' strengths?

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- **Q: What are his weaknesses?

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- **Q: What is his expected role in 2026?

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Takeaways

  • Hezekiah Masses is a ball-hawking cornerback with potential, but needs to develop physically.
  • The Raiders are prioritizing defensive backs in the draft.
  • Cal continues to be a reliable source of NFL-ready defensive talent.
  • Masses' development in the weight room will be key to his success in the NFL.

Discussion

What do you think of the Raiders' selection of Hezekiah Masses? Will he be able to overcome his physical limitations and become a valuable contributor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Disclaimer

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