Oakland Raiders: 5 biggest questions entering the summer
By Brad Weiss
Did the team do enough regarding the pass rush?
We all know the pathetic statistic from last season, as the Raiders were able to muster up only 13 sacks as a team. Of course, the lack of production was expected, as Khalil Mack was traded right before the season, and Bruce Irvin failed to show up in any kind of leadership role.
What was shocking was just how bad the pass rush was, and this offseason, Jon Gruden and new general manager Mike Mayock went out and brought in talent to help fix that issue in 2019. They utilized three of their nine draft picks on the defensive end position, while also adding guys like Benson Mayowa, Alex Barrett, and Josh Mauro via free agency.
The main question, however, is if the team did enough to actually be successful rushing the passer this season. No. 4 overall pick Clelin Ferrell looks like a perfect fit, and fellow rookie Maxx Crosby is a beast, while Arden Key has put on significant weight entering Year No. 2.
Did the Raiders do enough? Only time will tell, but this is a significantly more talented group than the guys that played most of the season for Oakland in 2018.