Oakland Raiders 2019 Week 1 53-man roster projection

8 of 11

CINCINNATI, OH – DECEMBER 24: Vontaze Burfict #55 of the Cincinnati Bengals reacts against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Paul Brown Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Linebackers

Vontaze Burfict, Tahir Whitehead, Brandon Marshall, Marquel Lee, Nicholas Morrow, Jason Cabinda

Linebacker has been a hole for the Oakland Raiders for what feels like the last decade. Although, Gruden went shopping this offseason and brought aboard two veteran leaders that can help the linebacker room.

Vontaze Burfict, Tahir Whitehead, and Brandon Marshall are the projected starters at linebacker for week 1. Burfict will be the defensive play caller, getting the signals from Paul Guenther. Whitehead had a slow start to last season, but came on strong towards the backend. He now looks to hit the ground rolling when the season opens up this year. Marshall has played a lot of meaningful football throughout his career, from multiple playoff games to super bowl victories. His presence will speak volume and should be very beneficial to the younger linebackers this season.

Marquel Lee, Nicholas Morrow, and Jason Cabinda will serve as the backup linebackers. All three are still projects in this league, but have all gotten a taste of what it’s like to play in a predominate role. This will be another growing year for all three guys, where only time will tell if someone of the bunch can elevate themselves into an every down linebacker in the near future.

Home/Las Vegas Raiders News