Raiders: 3 reasons adding Kyle Van Noy in free agency makes sense
Reason 1 – Linebacker help
With linebackers Nicholas Morrow and KJ Wright hitting free agency, the Raiders need to add some depth here. On top of that, the constant talks of Cory Littleton and Nick Kwiatkoski being cap casualties only add to this need. Van Noy can fill that need, and nicely at that.
Last year, Pro Football Focus have Van Noy a grade of 72.8; For perspective, Littleton received a grade of 47.8, which is shockingly still higher than last year’s 47.1. This is because Van Noy is consistent, and gives you a little of everything.
Throughout the last five years, the 6’3 linebacker has recorded 26.5 sacks, 34 tackles in the backfield, 356 combined tackles, and has even batted down 23 passes. He’s also forced eight fumbles, something Littleton has yet to do as a Raider.
Van Noy is not only highly regarded by Bill Belichick, but every locker room he joins is impressed with him. In his one season with Miami, Van Noy’s leadership was on full display as he was voted by the team to be a captain.
While in New England, the linebacker helped the Patriots win two Super Bowls. Amid their 2018 Super Bowl run, Van Noy was particularly effective in the post-season. He would have 18 tackles, three sacks, and even force a fumble in those three games.
We know Las Vegas could greatly use a playmaker in the LB unit, and to summarize, that’s Van Noy. Add his leadership and post-season experience, and you get a player the Raiders should have an interest in.