Why the Las Vegas Raiders should take LB Zack Baun in Round 1

Pass Rusher

On passing downs Baun has the flexibility to become an edge rusher for the Raiders defense. His addition would add a speed element to the rush where players like Clelin Ferrel and Carl Nassib are more likely to win with power and inside counters. Baun wins with burst off the line and and the flexibility to dramatically flatten angles when turning the corner on the outside.

You can never have too many pass rushers, and Baun’s skillset complements the existing rushers on the roster. The Raiders defense trotted out many combinations of defensive linemen in 2019. Part of that was trying to find the right mix of pass rushers. The best defensive lines however have a lethal rotation of player with fresh legs who can still rush the passer late in the game. Baun represents that possibility.

Paul Guenther also likes to use his linebackers as blitzers, if Littleton or Kwiatkoski go down with an injury, Baun has the pass rushing chops to keep the Raiders defense afloat without one of these free agent acquisitions. He would be the ultimate insurance plan for multiple positions.