But Dalton Johnson's role might be a bit more fluid. At least that's what he expects.His first three years, he was known for his tackling. But last season, he suddenly developed his coverage and the interceptions (four) and pass breakups (11) came along with it."I really had to develop my pass coverage side of the game," said Johnson.

"Always had the tackling ability and just the physical side, so being able to showcase my ball skills and all that, just wanted to be a complete DB; didn't want to just be put in a box, as a run fit safety or anything like that."So, while Johnson has a lot of experience playing in the box, making stops, he branched out this past season, moving around to most positions in the secondary.#Raiders got an impact safety/nickel hybrid in Dalton Johnson.He’s played free, strong and nickel alignments at Arizona, and had 5 interceptions and 7 forced fumbles in his three years as a starter (plus a blocked FG in 2022).Elite mover (4.41 forty) and showed that… pic.twitter.com/bZWkBekovt— Eric Galko (@EricGalko) April 25, 2026"I feel like I can play anywhere," Johnson said of his versatility. "I'm not going to say anywhere as far as outside at corner, but whatever my role is, I'm there to do it, whether that's nickel, boundary safety spot, free safety spot."As of right now, the Raiders have Jeremy Chinn as the starting strong safety and acquired nickel cornerback Taron Johnson in trade this offseason.

So, for now at least, the rookie will be looking up at those guys, hoping to add depth and be the next man up. Being able to play either position increases his chances of seeing the field earlier.This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders S Dalton Johnson can play in the box but don't put him in a box