Casey Hayward

The Chargers couldn't afford to keep Hayward as they released him for cap relief in March, with the veteran cornerback ultimately landing in Las Vegas where he'll be the early favorite to start over 2020 first-rounder Damon Arnette opposite Trayvon Mullen. The reliable Hayward, who turns 32 years old in September, has missed just two total games since the start of the 2014 season.

Hayward continues to be a highly-regarded cornerback across the league, now entering his ninth season as a pro. That's unfortunately resulted in fewer targets thrown his way, as evidenced by his career-low 32 tackles in 2019. Long-time Broncos cornerback Chris Harris is expected to start in the slot, so expect a similar sort of tackle output in 2020 with Michael Davis and Brandon Facyson expected to compete for the other starting outside cornerback position.

After recording 11 interceptions in his first two seasons with the Chargers, the 29-year-old found fewer targets thrown his way, ultimately finishing the 2018-19 campaign with zero picks. Credit that to Hayward's status as a premier corner in the league, a role he figures to reprise once more, but one that likely makes him a less than ideal IDP option.

Hayward earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance as well as second-team All-Pro honors after a 2017 season in which he recorded 40 tackles and four interceptions. While both those numbers are down from his breakout 2016 campaign, that's in part because teams simply didn't want to throw Hayward's way. The lack of ball-hawking opportunities makes Hayward an unappealing IDP option, but he's nevertheless developed into one of the premiere defensive backs in the league.

Hayward exploded onto the scene last season after injuries to top corners Jason Verrett and Brandon Flowers forced the former Packers corner into the No. 1 role. Seven interceptions and 58 tackles later, Hayward earned his first Pro Bowl nod of his career and quickly announced his presence as one of the better cornerbacks in the league. That being said, it would be tough to expect a repeat performance from Hayward, given he had accumulated 10 takeaways combined in his four years with Green Bay.

Joining the Chargers during the offseason after a successful four-year stint with the Packers, Hayward will likely take over as the primary nickle cornerback with Jason Verrett and Brandon Flowers in the fold. Hayward, who has recorded 10 total takeaways in his career, should aid a defense that grabbed just 11 interceptions in 2015.

While Hayward's 2014 tackle numbers did not jump off the page, his ability to take the ball from the other team did. He forced five turnovers on the season, intercepting three passes and recovering two fumbles -- and took one of each back for six points. Hayward's snaps were limited with him playing primarily in nickle/dime situations, but he could see more time on the field if he moves outside and grabs the open starting cornerback spot opposite Sam Shields. Hayward is the favorite to come away with the job, but he’ll have to fend off first-round pick Damarious Randall and second-year corner Demetri Goodson to ensure the spot.

Persistent hamstring issues derailed Hayward's highly-anticipated second season last year, when he played just three games. Fortunately, Hayward was able to participate in the Packers' offseason activities, putting him in good standing to return as a regularly featured cornerback this season. As a rookie in 2012, Hayward totaled 53 tackles (40 solo) and six interceptions.

Hayward gives the Packers depth at CB behind starters Tramon Williams and Sam Shields.

A second round draft pick, Hayward will provide depth at cornerback and could see some playing time if injuries occur or the Packers decide to shift Charles Woodson to safety.