Could the Oakland Raiders be Moving Khalil Mack to Leo?

Oct 12, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks outside linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) breaks up a pass to Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten (82) during the first half at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Free Agency

The Raiders brought in not one but two linebackers in free agency for starter’s money. Curtis Lofton, a tackling machine was brought in to play middle linebacker after being cut by the New Orleans Saints, who were up agains the salary cap. They also brought in 2013-14 Super Bowl MVP Malcolm Smith from the Seattle Seahawks.

Smith being added was no surprise as he knows Norton Jr. and his defense. He’s mainly been a Will linebacker but according to CSN’s Scott Bair, there’s a belief that he could compete at middle linebacker. The 4-3 under the Raiders use will have them lining up like inside linebackers so the loser of that battle can easily move to Will.

Smith brings coverage skills and knowledge of Norton Jr.s defense, playing stretches of MLB in Seattle. He won’t have to come off the field on passing downs so he can have the mic in his helmet. Either way, Sio Moore can move back to strongside OLB where he’s good and the second linebacker can cover, leaving Mack at Leo.

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