Is Denzel Perryman the best Raiders LB since Kirk Morrison?

Is Denzel Perryman the best Raiders LB since Kirk Morrison?

It’s all about perspective when comparing players and eras…

It’s always fun to compare and contrast historical players with current ones. Obviously, from looking at the numbers, you can make a case for both Perryman and Morrison as the best Raiders inside linebackers this century.

It can be argued that Morrison had a broader impact given his sacks and tackles in the offensive backfield. But at the same time, maybe Morrison’s numbers were a result of the general lack of talent around him. Yes, Perryman doesn’t have much in the pass rushing department, but look at the defensive line that’s in front of him.

He has arguably the best pass-rushing duo in Maxx Crosby and Yannick Ngakoue. In contrast, Morrison played behind Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour.

Comparing those two defenses would be like comparing apples and oranges. John Marshall’s defense in 2009 was ranked 29th in surrendering rushing yards. Gus Bradley’s unit is ranked 19th. I could go on with the stark differences, but it’s to show you that both men played in different circumstances, which is the inherent problem in comparing eras.

In the end, Raider Nation should enjoy Perryman’s play but not overlook Morrison’s contributions. If nothing else, it shows how far the Raiders’ linebackers have come since 2009.