Raiders 53-man roster projection after preseason opener
By Brad Weiss
Linebacker (7): Tahir Whitehead, Derrick Johnson, Marquel Lee, James Cowser, Nicholas Morrow, Azeem Victor, Emmanuel Lamur
One of the weaker position groups on the Raiders last season was the linebacking corps, and it did not look to be getting any better early in the offseason. With the team unable to re-sign NaVorro Bowman, there was real questions as to who would lead this unit, but after Friday, they look to be in good hands.
Tahir Whitehead was a tremendous pickup by Reggie McKenzie and staff, and looks the part of dominating linebacker when he is on the field. Marquel Lee really made improves in his game this offseason, and against the Lions, he may have been the best linebacker on the field for either team.
Derrick Johnson is going to provide veteran leadership for the group, and has something to prove coming off an Achilles injury. James Cowser was one of the highest rated players on the Raiders in preseason game No. 1 according to Pro Football Focus, and Azeem Victor is only going to get better with more experience.
Outside of those players, look for Emmanuel Lamur and Nicholas Morrow to make the team as well, providing nice depth to the position group. All of a sudden, the linebacker group looks solid, and new defensive coordinator Paul Guenther is definitely going to have them ready to go in Week 1.