2018 Oakland Raiders: 5 early training camp standouts

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SAN DIEGO, CA – DECEMBER 18: BruceIrvin #51 of the Oakland Raiders reacts to sacking Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers late in the fourth quarter en route to the Raiders 19-16 win over Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on December 18, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images) /

Bruce Irvin

The biggest storyline in camp so far has been the fact that star defensive end Khalil Mack is holding out for a new contract. In his place, Bruce Irvin has stepped up to be the leader along the defensive line, and is having his best training camp as a pro.

Irvin is making the full-time switch to defensive end this season, which means he could be in for his most productive season of his career. New defensive coordinator Paul Guenther will certainly know how to utilize his skill set, and he is practicing with the kind of ferocity that could lead to his best season of his already stellar career.

The hope is Mack will be back at some point this summer, and Irvin can have his fellow feared edge rusher along the line with him. In addition to his exploits on the practice field, Irvin is also helping in the development of rookie Arden Key, who could prove to be an elite edge rusher in this league before long.

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