5 bold predictions for the Oakland Raiders in 2019
![OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: A detailed view of Oakland Raiders helmets sitting on the bench during the National Anthem prior to their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: A detailed view of Oakland Raiders helmets sitting on the bench during the National Anthem prior to their game against the Atlanta Falcons at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 18, 2016 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fjustblogbaby-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fgetty-images-2F2017-2F09-2F610113444-atlanta-falcons-v-oakland-raiders-jpg-547def26504620218e90bba9f688c734adb3248ec6f30d81ce80ad4acffbf01d.jpg)
Maurice Hurst 10 sacks
Amidst a troubled 2018 season, Maurice Hurst became a bright spot on the Raiders defense leading the team in sacks with four. Hurst was always a first-round talent, but medical concerns allowed the Raiders to take him on day 3, and that gamble is going to pay huge dividends in 2019.
Hurst had major flashes as a rookie, and with a full offseason and training camp, he will be ready to terrorize quarterbacks.
Hurst has already talked during the offseason about his own expectation and knows a big leap in production is expected
"“That’s on me to make the big leap, and on my teammates, and I think if one of us does really well, it helps the whole as a group."
Next. Key and Crosby train with pass rushing specialist. dark
A double-digit sack season is a goal for any pass rusher, and I am sure Hurst is no different. His blend of quickness and power makes him very similar to a player like Geno Atkins, who also took a massive leap in his second season.