It appears the Las Vegas Raiders will be without rookie safety Treydan Stukes for a second consecutive game in Week 3. Still in the concussion protocol, Stukes missed both Wednesday and Thursday practices. With the league's protocol being a five-step process, he's now highly unlikely to clear prior to Sunday's Week 3 matchup with the New Orleans Saints.
That places some emphasis on Isaiah Pola-Mao and his performance. Pola-Mao made his season debut in Stukes' place in Week 2, playing 38 total snaps. The veteran safety was credited with allowing two receptions on three targets for 61 yards, per Pro Football Focus.
The Raiders will demand more from Pola-Mao in Week 3. The former USC Trojans defender will be up against a Saints offense with an improving
sophomore quarterback in Tyler Shough. Through two weeks, Shough led all NFL quarterbacks in passing yards with 662 (Jordan Love passed him on Thursday Night Football).
This Raiders secondary will face a stiff test versus a Kellen Moore-coached offense. Not having Stukes would be unfortunate, but Pola-Mao is an experienced safety with 63 career appearances (31) starts for the Raiders dating back to 2022. This coaching staff is comfortable with him, so he'll be tasked with maximizing the opportunity.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders need more from Isaiah Pola-Mao in Week 3
