Five Oakland Raiders who must step up with Aldon Smith gone

Benson Mayowa

Nov 8, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; The Pittsburgh Steelers offense lines up against the Oakland Raiders defense during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Mayowa should get the first crack at Smith’s pass rushing roll. Outside of Khalil Mack, Mayowa is probably the Raiders most natural pass rusher.

Mayowa received a lot of attention for solid play in the preseason, before getting injured against the Seahawks.

Now he has a chance to earn his keep in this league. Mayowa will help the Raiders as a stand-up or hand-down pass rusher. Mayowa is listed as Khalil Mack’s primary back-up, but he could move to the opposite side of Mack on pass rushing downs.