Raiders Advised to Reunite with Former $26 Million Sack Leader
The Las Vegas Raiders’ defensive line is anticipated to be a strong point this offseason. However, there could be a depth issue if Tyree Wilson doesn’t progress significantly in his second year.
Rather than heavily investing in the secondary, the Raiders seem focused on enhancing their defensive line. According to ESPN’s Aaron Schatz, signing free agent defensive end Yannick Ngakoue could be a beneficial move.
“While the Raiders boast a superstar edge rusher in Maxx Crosby, they face a depth problem behind him,” Schatz wrote in a June 20 column. “Currently, the plan is to move Tyree Wilson inside, leaving Malcolm Koonce on the edge. Koonce had a surprising season in 2023, with eight sacks and 31 pressures, capitalizing on defenses double-teaming Crosby. However, behind him are mostly veteran journeymen and young free agents. Bringing in Ngakoue would provide a reliable veteran edge rusher who can rotate with Koonce and step up if Crosby or Koonce are injured.”
Ngakoue, who played for the Raiders in 2021 and led the team with 10.0 sacks, already has a rapport with Maxx Crosby, despite the current coaching staff being different.
Do the Las Vegas Raiders Need Another DE?
The defensive end position is one of the Raiders’ strengths, with Crosby being an All-Pro, Koonce having a breakout year, and Wilson being a recent No. 7 draft pick. Although adding Ngakoue isn’t a pressing necessity, it could be a smart move.
Ngakoue, though not strong in run defense, is an effective pass rusher, having recorded at least 8.0 sacks in every season but one. He could serve as a valuable situational pass rusher and has demonstrated leadership qualities, having been a team captain during his time with the Raiders. His addition would be low-risk given his likely cost.
Tyree Wilson Aims to Improve in Year 2
Wilson was recovering from a college injury when he joined the Raiders, causing him to miss many offseason activities and part of training camp. Now, with a full offseason ahead, he aims to improve after a challenging rookie season.
“I feel like it starts off the field. You’ve got to have good weight, good eating habits, sleeping habits to be the best on the field,” Wilson said during his May 21 media availability. “I learned that from a leader in the room, Maxx Crosby. So, I tried to work with him all offseason to improve my game on the field. He just pushed me to be better. He’d always asked me like, ‘What are you eating? Who’s your nutritionist? How are you stretching?’ Just stuff that just makes me better, like he does.”
Wilson has the potential to be an excellent pass rusher but needs development time. While the Raiders will likely start the season with Koonce as a starter, Wilson’s role may increase as the season progresses.
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