10 things the Oakland Raiders need to do to reach Super Bowl LV
By Brad Weiss
Add talent to the edge
Prior to the 2018 NFL season, the Oakland Raiders did something that was considered unimaginable, as they traded away generational talent, Khalil Mack in his prime. Mack, who was only 27-years old at the time, was the cornerstone of this Raiders defense, and went on to lead the Chicago Bears to an NFC North title in year one in the Windy City.
In his place, Oakland hoped Bruce Irvin would step up and be a leader, but he was let go during the season. That left guys like rookie Arden Key and Frostee Rucker to tow the line, and they led a group that got to the quarterback only 13 times, led by defensive tackle Maurice Hurst with four sacks.
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Getting better at getting after the quarterback has got to be priority No. 1 for the Raiders, who were historically bad at doing so in 2018. This is a 2019 NFL Draft class that is loaded with talent at the edge rusher spot, and you have to think that is where the Raiders are going to direct their efforts with the No. 4 overall selection.