Oakland Raiders 2014 Training Camp Lookahead: Defense
By Brazy
DEFENSIVE LINE
The Raiders biggest signing this offseason was Defensive End Justin Tuck. He is coming off an 11 sack season and is looked to anchor the D line providing some much needed pressure from the end. The Raiders also signed proven veterans LaMarr Woodley and Antonio Smith. Woodley is also expected to play DE, while Antonio is expected to play both. LaMarr has only played in all 16 games, two out of his seven seasons in the league and hasn’t played a full season since 2010. But in every year he did play a full season, he recorded double digit sacks. Smith on the other hand has missed only 1 game the last three years and has averaged 6 sacks in those three seasons. These three veterans are going to need reserves Jack Crawford and Ryan Robinson to continue to log minutes, but increase their play making. Maybe their 2014, 7th round draft pick, Shelby Harris can contribute. Undrafted free agent Denico Autry rounds out the depth chart. The Raiders brought back Pat Simms to pair once again with Stacy McGee as the big fellas in the middle. They also added via the draft, 4th round pick Justin Jelly Ellis and signed four year free agent Terrell Troup. Practice squad player Ricky Lumpkin rounds out the Defensive Tackles.
The Raiders may seem thin at Defensive End, but they use their linebackers as defensive ends on passing downs, so the snaps needed from that group is not as demanding as a traditional 4-3 Defensive End. I like this group of players to run Tarver’s scheme. Lots of versatility on the ends and tons of beef on the inside. I think Tuck and Antonio will be consistent in their play and on the field all season. The wildcard to me is Woodley. When he can stay on the field, he can make plays for you. I’m also interested to see how our big fellas in the middle play. Will Pat Simms be in better shape and play with consistent effort? Can Stacy take that next step in his development? Will Jelly roll? Can Troup establish his career? All questions I’ll be looking for answers to during the season.