2021 NFL Draft: Edge rushers the Las Vegas Raiders should target

2021 NFL Draft: Edge rushers the Las Vegas Raiders should target

Sleepers

• Chris Rumph II, Duke

A coach’s son, Chris Rumph II is a lean but versatile edge defender coming out of Duke standing at 6’3 235-pounds. Rumph recorded 124 tackles, 33.0 tackles for a loss, and 17.5 sacks in his three years for the Blue-Devils.

Rumph displays solid technique, a high-motor, dip, rush moves, and speed off of the edge. He also excelled rushing to the inside-gap despite his lack of weight. This lack of weight is also the biggest concern for Rumph and his potential plus scheme fit for the next-level.

Many believe he will need to change positions to an off-ball linebacker if he doesn’t pack on some muscle. But in today’s league that values speed over power when it comes to edge rushers, I do not believe he needs to add too much to be effective in the NFL.

Rumph has the potential to step in and make an impact as a situational edge rusher as a rookie, preferably in a 3-4 front as an outside linebacker. But with added muscle can potentially develop into a player worthy of playing all 3-downs even as a defensive end in a 4-3.

• DeAngelo Malone, Western Kentucky

Like Chris Rumph, DeAngelo Malone is another lean edge rusher that many believe will need to make a position change to make it at the next level. Malone had an extremely productive career at Western Kentucky finishing with 255 total tackles, 41.5 tackles for a loss, 24.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles.

At 230 pounds, Malone will definitely need to add weight to continue to play on the edge in the NFL, but in college Malone dominated Conference USA tackles with sheer speed, flexibility/bend, and explosion coming off the snap. His ability to set the edge however wasn’t consistent, as it is clear he lacked ideal strength.

With no experience playing off-ball it is likely Malone will be utilized solely on passing downs if he is to stay on the edge, otherwise, he is a total project.