Defensive Line
Plan A: Sign Either Malik Jackson/Olivier Vernon
Plan B: Sign Derrick Shelby
My “No” List: Nick Fairley, Jason Pierre-Paul, Mario Williams, Chris Long
Much of the Raider defense is currently in flux. After last year the only guarantee fans had was that they were running a pure hybrid. That is an oxymoron of course, but the point is this team lacked a solid base identity. In many respects, the defense tended to lean towards 3-4 concepts with a 4-3 look, but deciding on exactly what principles the defense will use, helps the long term planning.
If the Raiders were to sign Malik Jackson from the Denver Broncos, who head coach Jack Del Rio knows well, they will likely lean towards more 3-4 concepts while trickling in other ideas. This makes sense because of Khalil Mack’s abilities and the statements the team has made about retaining Aldon Smith.
On the other hand, if the Raiders decide to go with a player in the mold of Olivier Vernon who is transitioned tag meaning the Raiders are not required to give up compensation to sign, they would in effect be passing on resigning Aldon Smith.
More importantly, they would be making it clear that they are leaning towards more of a 4-3 personnel look. Either player would be an exceptional addition to this roster and in conjunction with Osemele would constitute and incredible free agent class, but the choice the team makes will outline their long-term defensive plans.
If for whatever reason they cannot retain the services of either player, the Raiders could look to add Derrick Shelby also from the Dolphins who leans more towards a 3-4 personnel, but can play a little 4-3 defensive end on the strong side. He is not at quite the talent level of Vernon or Malik Jackson, but he would be a quality talent to add that would start day one.
Contracts:
Malik Jackson: 5 years, 75 million, 35 million first 2 years guaranteed
Olivier Vernon: 5 years, 75 million, 35 million first 2 years guaranteed
Derrick Shelby: 4 years, 40 million, 25 million first 2 years guaranteed