**2 Raiders DLs on Expiring Contracts Listed as Trade Candidates**
The Las Vegas Raiders are poised for a strong defensive showing in 2024, largely due to a deep defensive line. Leading the group are defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and defensive end Maxx Crosby, with solid depth behind them.
Malcolm Koonce, who was second on the team with 8.0 sacks last season, is perhaps their third-best defensive lineman. However, with an expiring contract and the presence of former No. 7 pick Tyree Wilson, Koonce’s future with the Raiders is uncertain.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggested that Koonce could be a trade candidate if Wilson shows progress and the Raiders decide not to extend Koonce’s contract. Knox noted that while the Raiders wouldn’t trade Crosby, they might consider trading Koonce to strengthen other positions if they anticipate losing him in 2025 free agency.
“Losing Koonce would hurt the defense, but it could create more opportunities for Tyree Wilson,” Knox wrote. Wilson had 3.5 sacks and 11 quarterback pressures in his rookie year, despite playing only 44 percent of defensive snaps.
While Koonce impressed last season, he only had 2.0 sacks combined in his first two seasons, making it hard to predict his trade value. The Raiders might prefer to let him play a few games in 2024 to prove his performance last season wasn’t a fluke before trading him.
**Adam Butler Also a Trade Candidate**
Knox also mentioned defensive tackle Adam Butler as a potential trade candidate. Although Butler has never been a full-time starter, his ability to generate interior pressure makes him valuable. Over six seasons with the Raiders, Miami Dolphins, and New England Patriots, he has averaged just over 3.5 sacks per season.
Butler, who didn’t start any games last season, is now more of a depth player, especially with the addition of Wilkins. Knox suggested that if another team needs help on the defensive interior, Butler could bring a strong return.
**Why Sacrifice DL Depth?**
While trading from their defensive line depth could provide value, it might not make sense for the Raiders right now. Koonce is still developing, and Wilson hasn’t shown enough to justify moving on from a potential Pro Bowler. Butler, though productive, is 30 years old, and the team is unlikely to get more than a fifth-round pick for him. The Raiders might only consider trading these players if they start the season poorly and decide to build for the future by acquiring draft capital.
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