Oakland Raiders: 3 defensive players whose stock is on the rise

Marquel Lee, Linebacker

The linebacker position was a weak one for the Raiders last season, and that problem became even worse when the team failed to sign NaVorro Bowman this offseason. However, they went out and stocked up on talent at the position group, and some of those players are really taking advantage of their opportunity early on.

Marquel Lee put the smackdown on tight end Derek Carrier on Monday, and Carrier has still yet to see the field. Those are the kind of hits that get you noticed by a new coaching staff, and could go a long way in him being the third starting linebacker for this team this season.

Tahir Whitehead and Derrick Johnson should be two of the three starters if they continue to have a solid camp, but that third position is wide open. It really is refreshing to see so many talented players fighting for spots, but Lee has really stood out during the first week of camp.