PFF Recap: Grading the Oakland Raiders in Week 9
By Austin Gayle
Darius Latham Finds his Niche Within Oakland’s Defensive Line
With defensive end Stacy McGee still dealing with an ankle injury, Raiders defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. has leaned on his depth along the defensive line to maintain a high level of production.
Rookie undrafted free agent Darius Latham has answered the call.
Latham, a former University of Indiana product, accumulated three total tackles, one tackles for loss and a pass deflection against the Broncos, but, more importantly, he dictated the line of scrimmage, creating early penetration that directly led to Denver’s woes on the ground.
Broncos running backs Devontae Booker and Kapri Bibbs combined for just 33 yards on 12 carries.
At 6’4”, 311 pounds, Latham possesses ideal size for an interior defensive line product, and his play strength and hand usage is comparable to some of the best defensive tackles in the league.
According to Lance Zierlein of NFL.com, Latham entered the draft with serious concerns regarding his ability to remain consistent, so in order to avoid becoming a flash in the pan, he must prove he can maintain his production and work ethic.
Look for veterans like Dan Williams and Justin Ellis to push Lathum in the right direction and positively impact his development in an effort to keep his fire from burning out.