The Las Vegas Raiders are looking to fortify their defense following a commendable 2023 season that saw them secure the ninth-best scoring defense in the league, allowing only 19.5 points per game. Despite their success, there is a recognized need to enhance certain positions for the defense to consistently rank among the league’s elite.
A longstanding requirement for a pass-rushing defensive tackle has persisted for the Raiders, and Marcus Mosher of The 33rd Team suggests that Leonard Williams from the Seattle Seahawks could be the solution. Williams, a seasoned defensive lineman and former Pro Bowler, offers versatility by playing both defensive end and defensive tackle. Mosher argues that despite Williams’ age, he would significantly upgrade the Raiders’ defensive line.
Williams has a history with Raiders’ defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, having played under him during their time with the New York Giants in 2020 and 2021. Given their past collaboration, Williams would seamlessly adapt to Graham’s defensive system. His most productive season, with a career-high 11.5 sacks in 2020, coincided with Graham’s tenure, making the Raiders an ideal fit for the veteran lineman.
Interestingly, Williams had expressed a desire to be drafted by the Raiders back in 2015, citing them as his favorite hometown team. Despite the opportunity to select Williams with the No. 4 pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the Raiders opted for wide receiver Amari Cooper. Now, nearly a decade later, the team has a chance to acquire Williams in free agency, aligning with his earlier interest in joining the franchise.
Additionally, the article emphasizes the need for the Raiders to re-sign defensive tackle Adam Butler, who proved to be a surprise standout during the previous season. Despite starting no games in 2023, Butler recorded the third-highest number of sacks on the team with 5.0. At 29 years old, Butler may lack long-term upside, but his effectiveness in Patrick Graham’s defense and ability to contribute as a pass-rushing defensive tackle make him a valuable asset. The article suggests that retaining Butler would contribute to maintaining defensive line continuity and reinforce the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
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