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Oakland Raiders: 5 Preseason Standouts through Week 2

By Matt Holder

(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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OAKLAND, CA – AUGUST 24: Arden Key #99 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after he sacked the quarterback against the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on August 24, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA – AUGUST 24: Arden Key #99 of the Oakland Raiders celebrates after he sacked the quarterback against the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on August 24, 2018 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Arden Key

It has been well documented that the Raiders need to get more out of their edge rushers in 2019. A key (no pun intended) factor of that will be the play of second-year defensive end Arden Key. In his rookie year, the third round pick only managed one sack and 20 total pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.

Oakland needs to see more consistency out of the former LSU Tiger in his sophomore year. If the preseason is any indication, there is reason to be optimistic about Key. In two games, the pass rusher has accumulated six pressures, which is tied for fifth in the NFL, and ties Ethan Westbrooks for the most on the team.

What’s even more impressive about Key’s performance is Westbrooks has rushed the passer 17 more times.

For what it’s worth, Key only had two pressures during the preseason in 2018. Working with new defensive line coach Brenston Buckner looks to be aiding the young pass rusher’s development.

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