Las Vegas Raiders: Midseason Awards at the halfway point of 2020

Las Vegas Raiders: Midseason Awards at the halfway point of 2020

Defensive Player of the First Half  – LB Nick Kwiatkoski

The defensive player of the first quarter was Mo Hurst after some impressive performances in limited duty but since coming back from his chest injury, Nick Kwiatkoski has been every bit as advertised as the new leader of this defense. The Raiders defense is still a work in progress but one area they have been solid is rush defense and that has been primarily because of Kwiatkoski.

When Kwiatkoski was out of the lineup against the New England Patriots, they ran all over the Raiders for more than 200 yards and controlled the game. Since then no opponent has rushed for more than 130 yards and they have held three opponents under 90 yards rushing. They have also allowed just one 100-yard rusher this season and to no one’s surprise it was when Kwiatkoski was out injured.

Despite playing just 6 games so far, Kwiatkoski is fifth on the team with 36 total tackles, third in passes defended, and is one of two players with a forced fumble. According to Pro Football Reference, Kwiatkoski has been targeted 24 times in the passing game and has given up just 11 receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown. He is allowing just a 45.8 completion percentage and has missed just two tackles so far this season.

Kwiatkoski has been every bit the player the Raiders expected when they signed him to a 3-year, $21 million deal this offseason and has been a difference maker on a defense that is struggling to make plays. Johnathan Abram is a solid candidate for this award but he has not been the same steadying presence that Kwiatkoski has been for this team and this defense.