Resetting the Las Vegas Raiders biggest needs after free agency
By Evan Groat
Linebacker
Yes, even after the addition of Nick Kwiatkoski and Cory Littleton the linebacker position still could use at least one more body. The Raiders are a 4-3 base team, but like much of the league, spend the majority of the time in the nickel, meaning two linebackers are on the field.
The additions of Kwiatkoski and Littleton were solid, there is no doubt about that, but the lack of depth behind them is a bit alarming. Kyle Wilber will return for another year, although his biggest contributions are on special teams. Nicholas Morrow had a second round tender placed on him, all but assuring he will be with the team when the season starts in 2020.
Marquel Lee is back in the mix after a disappointing season last year filled with injury, and the hope is that he can provide quality depth behind Kwiatkoski and Littleton. He has shown himself to be a solid player when healthy, though just not starting caliber.
Whether it’s a veteran like Will Compton, or a rookie in the draft, the Raiders would be wise to continue to build on this group. Remember, the defense was an absolute liability last season, and while they have added solid talent, there is still a lot of work left to do.