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DENVER – Raiders cornerback TJ Carrie was considered questionable to play Sunday’s season finale at Denver on the team’s official injury report. On Saturday morning, the rookie starter was formally ruled out of that contest.
That’s a big blow to an already weakened cornerback corps, which has few experienced players left. Tarell Brown and Carlos Rogers are on injured reserve, and Chimdi Chekwa has been ruled out with a strained hamstring.
That leaves Keith McGill and Neiko Thorpe to play alongside remaining starter DJ Hayden against Denver, which frequently uses multiple-receiver sets.
[BAIR: Young Raiders secondary gaining valuable experience]
Carrie has battled an ankle injury for the better part of two months, and missed just two games prior to this week with a regimen that included time off during the practice week.
The ankle didn’t respond well to a home victory over the Buffalo Bills, where he played well despite significant snaps.
Carrie managed the injury well and became a key contributor on defense and special teams. If he can stay healthy, he should compete for a starting spot next season and be the No. 3 cornerback at minimum.
The Raiders also young defensive backs have Ras-I Dowling and Chance Casey ready for Sunday’s game.
