Oakland Raiders at Los Angeles Rams: 5 things to keep an eye on
By Brad Weiss
Will Lee continue to improve
As a rookie last season, Marquel Lee just was not ready to contribute, as he looked out of sorts at times during year one. So far this summer, he has become one of the best surprises on this defense, and is making a legitimate case to be the starting middle linebacker in Paul Guenther’s 4-3 scheme.
Against the Lions, Lee was all over the field, and Pro Football Focus rated him as the top Raiders defender in the game. He did not miss a single tackle, and against the run, played argubaly the best football of his young career.
The Raiders brought in veteran Derrick Johnson to play in the middle this offseason, but Lee may be too hard to overlook. Oakland has to replace the leadership of NaVorro Bowman as well, who is still a free agent, and really took over this defense after coming to the Raiders mid-season in 2017.
The Raiders feel they have a solid player now in Lee, and the coaching staff has loved what they have seen from him. If he puts on another solid display against the Rams on Saturday, it won’t be long until he is listed at the top of the depth chart at his position.