Raiders get the help they need at the edge rusher spot for Maxx Crosby
The Raiders have to create pressure with their front four if they hope to run Bradley’s scheme, so, they need to keep investing in their pass rush and upgrade that unit’s overall talent. Last season, the Raiders were able to muster only 21 sacks as a unit, with seven coming from Maxx Crosby, so you can be sure they are going to add talent to the edges this offseason.
Michigan’s Kwity Paye is one of the best athletes in the draft and topped Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List going into the 2020 season.
"“He clocked the second-best 3-cone time on the team at a blistering 6.37 seconds, which would have topped anyone at the 2020 combine. Paye’s 40 is also moving at 4.57, with a solid 34-inch vertical and 30 reps on the bench press. Paye’s 40 time and 4.15 pro shuttle time are better than any D-lineman or edge player who tested at the 2020 combine. His 11.3 time in the 60-yard shuttle is also elite.”"
Paye has steadily improved on the field in terms of pass rush plans, and at 272 pounds, he holds up very well in the run game. There may also be opportunities for him to rush from the interior as well, given his size, and his versatility is going to go a long way at the next level.
Overall, Paye brings a ton of physical traits to the table, and his continued growth as a player has him on track to be a high-impact player in the NFL. The Raiders have a very young defensive line, led by the likes of Crosby, Clelin Ferrell, and Maurice Hurst, so adding another solid, young defensive lineman makes a lot of sense with the team’s first pick in 2021.