3 surprising breakout candidates for the Oakland Raiders in 2019

Arden Key

He may not be that much of a sleeper candidate, but personally, my feelings towards Arden Key have changed dramatically. When he was drafted, it seemed like an unnecessary reach, but now he could be in line to become far more productive player than I would have predicted.

The Raiders are going to relying on a lot of youth when it comes to edge defenders so if they are to succeed, one of those players is going to have to emerge. Key showed flashes last year of a guy who could be an impact pass rusher but struggled to finish plays as a rookie. Physically Key has what you want from a pass rusher with good size, long wingspan, and the necessary athleticism to bend the edge. Now with a full offseason and added strength, he should be able to close on some more of those sacks he missed in 2018.

Defensive line coach Brentson Buckner has made finishing plays a clear point of emphasis to Key who seems dedicated to making that sophomore leap. The drafting of Clelin Ferrell should help give Key a stable partner on the opposite end, and interior disruption from Maurice Hurst should give Key more one-on-one chances. If this is the case, Key needs to win the matchups, and once he does this defense could really begin to turn the corner.

Key has always had the talent, but 2019 could be the season we see the fruit of that talent.