Oakland Raiders 2019 draft pick season predictions: Clelin Ferrell

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CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 01: Clelin Ferrell #99 of the Clemson Tigers reacts after making a tackle for a loss against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first quarter of their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

What to expect

The most sacks ever in a rookie season is 14.5, and we can expect Clelin Ferrell to fall short of that number by a large margin. Getting to the quarterback has proven to be one of the hardest things to do when transitioning from college to the pros, as Khalil Mack only had four sacks in his rookie season, and JJ Watt had just five and a half.

Obviously Ferrell could get a sack in any game, as he does have a ton of skill and potential, but I see him getting his first sack in week three against the Vikings, picking up a few more against the Packers and Texans, and getting his last few of his rookie season late in the year against the Titans and Jaguars for a range of five to seven sacks.

We will not be able to judge Ferrell’s rookie season strictly based off of the number of sacks he gets. If Ferrell can just pressure the quarterback, forcing him to make bad throws, and also receiving enough notice to the point where it gives opportunities to the rest of the players on the defensive line, he will be well worth the pick.

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Ferrell may not record a large number of sacks next season, but as the season progresses, expect him to be getting in the backfield more often each week, forcing the quarterback to throw the ball quicker and quicker, helping our defensive backs to not give up big plays. If Ferrell can do this, the sacks will eventually come, and all parts of the Raiders defense will benefit.

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