Las Vegas Raiders: Grading 2021 week 2 defensive free agent additions

Las Vegas Raiders: Grading 2021 week 2 defensive free agent additions

Johnathan Hankins – Defensive Tackle, Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders brought back one of their better performing defensive players in defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins after three solid years in Silver and Black. Hankins was an unrestricted free agent and is heading back to Las Vegas on a one-year deal worth $3.5 million all of which is guaranteed.

The former Ohio State Buckeye is one of those run-stuffing defensive tackles that don’t register much in terms of stats, as evidenced by his 134 tackles and 2.5 sacks in three years with the Raiders, but makes a major impact by drawing double teams. There was concern before he reupped with the Raiders that the team would not have any players over 300lbs on the defensive line, but Hankins and his 340 pound frame are back in the fold.

On a defense that struggled against both the run and pass, Hankins was one of the few defenders that had a solid season and he should pair well with a pass rushing defensive tackle like Mo Hurst, Quinton Jefferson, or even Clelin Ferrell if that is his new role. This is another good signing for the Raiders and locks in a starter and impact player in specific situations.

Grade: B