Las Vegas Raiders: 4 players who could pull a Shohei Ohtani and play both ways

Dec 17, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; A general view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign on the Las Vegas strip. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 17, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; A general view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign on the Las Vegas strip. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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Las Vegas Raiders
Dec 26, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders tight end Darren Waller (83) reacts against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Las Vegas Raiders: 4 players who could pull a Shohei Ohtani and play both ways

1. Darren Waller, TE –> Edge

The Las Vegas Raiders have been looking for an elite edge rusher who could replace the departed Khalil Mack for years, and they have tried to fix that by using draft picks and free agency money on the position group. This offseason, Yannick Ngakoue was added to the mix, as well as the drafted Malcolm Koonce, so there is enough depth to at least improve in 2021.

However, if we are discussing an offensive player who could step in and help out with the lack of a pass rush, it would be Darren Waller, the freakishly talented athlete who is one of the best tight ends in the NFL. With his blend of size, speed, and athleticism, Waller could certainly get the edge, helping boost a pass rush that notched only 21 sacks last season

In all reality, the combination of Maxx Crosby and Yannick Ngakoue should help the group improve in a big way in 2021, but Waller has the build to play defensive end in situational spots. It would never happen, but his long arms would at least be able to bat the ball down, and he would look like a freight train coming off the edge.

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