Malik Jackson
Coming off a Super Bowl victory with the Denver Broncos, defensive lineman Malik Jackson is projected to be one of the highly coveted free agent targets to test the market, which as a result, should put Oakland at the front of the line to sign him to a long-term deal.
Jackson, 26, in three consecutive 16-game seasons with the Broncos earned a combined total of 129 tackles (100 solo), 14 sacks, and 15 batted passes.
“We have now seen back-to-back seasons of quality play from Malik Jackson, and that means that he is chasing a big-money contract as he enters free agency,” via Sam Monson of ProFootballFocus.com. “After posting a very strong +35.2 cumulative grade a year ago as a rotational body in Denver’s front, he repeated that performance (+37.9) as a starter this year, playing 1,023 total snaps (including the playoffs).”
A former fifth-round pick out of Tennessee in 2012, Jackson has developed into a balanced force within the interior defensive line, as he has proven capable of both pushing the pocket in passing situations and remaining impactful against the run. At 6’5”, 293 pounds, Jackson is a versatile defensive lineman that can play defensive end in a 3-4 scheme or he can be kicked inside to play one of the defensive tackle spots in a 4-3.
With Dan Williams still projected to start and 2014 fourth round pick Justin Ellis still looking to continue his development at defensive tackle, Jackson wouldn’t necessarily fill a pressing need, but Oakland can afford to invest in an impact player like Jackson regardless if it fills a believed hole in their roster. With Williams, Ellis, and Jackson in a rotation at defensive tackle, the middle of the Raiders’ defense would dramatically improve.
Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio also has somewhat of a history with Jackson, as he played a significant role in Jackson’s development during his time there in Denver from 2012-2014. With Del Rio’s connection to Jackson and the fact that Oakland can afford him, the Raiders have been considered a likely landing spot for the Jackson.
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According to Spotrac.com, Jackson’s market value is projected to be north of $10 million annually.
Next: Five Must Sign Free Agents