Inconspicuous edge rusher draft prospects the Las Vegas Raiders should target
Ali Fayad from Western Michigan is another under-the-radar edge rusher
Like Smith, Ali Fayad might not be a heavily discussed prospect because he too doesn’t play in an upper-tier college conference. Be that as it may, Fayad put up solid numbers playing in the MAC conference, as he generated 120 total tackles, 35.5 tackles for a loss, 16.5 sacks, and six forced fumbles in four seasons at Western Michigan.
Even if fans might not know much about Fayad’s school, that doesn’t mean the national media hasn’t paid attention. He was ranked as the tenth-best EDGE defender in the country before this year’s college season commenced.
Fayad remained a steady defender in his collegiate career, and according to PFF, he graded at 75.9, 80.4, 80.7, and 79.8, respectively. By far, Fayad’s biggest strength is his pass rush, which PFF graded an eye-popping 90.4 for 2020.
The six-foot-two, 255-pound rusher also has a relentless motor, as you can see for yourself in his film. Overpowering offensive lines, Fayad pursues the quarterback, not only seeking to bring him down but also looking to make a play. His hands are always active, and the accrued forced fumbles are also evidence of this.
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The Raiders need someone like Fayad, an EDGE defender that will pursue quarterbacks, and he can’t do any worse than Key. The bar is low for the Raiders next year as far as their defensive line, so either Smith or Fayad would make interesting additions.