Raiders: 3 reasons this season will be different for Malcolm Koonce

Raiders: 3 reasons this season will be different for Malcolm Koonce

His Versatility

The Silver and Black’s 79th overall pick last season is a long, bendy pass rusher who can excel at both the defensive end and outside linebacker positions.

For the Raiders, this is an asset not to be taken lately.

Patrick Graham’s scheme is all about versatility. He plans to run a 3-4 when that’s the more-likely effective front against an opposing offense, and 4-3 when that front is the better option. For Koonce, he can play in either of these two fronts.

Entering the 2021 NFL draft, Koonce’ game was expected to best translate as a 3-4 outside linebacker. Instead, he was taken in the third-round by the Raiders, where he was subjected to a 4-3 defensive end, proving he could be a factor in this role.

Under Gus Bradley, Koonce’ versatility didn’t matter at all. There was no need for him to play as an outside linebacker, because the scheme didn’t call for a pass rushing specialist at the position. Now, with Patrick Graham manning the defensive coordinator post, that ability to play both positions in both fronts is key to the 23-year-old seeing his snap count skyrocket.

Needless to say, more defensive snaps equals more experience, giving players more opportunity to perfect their craft. Koonce should have a great deal of time on the field, not just for his versatility, but for the depth around the two positions he’ll likely play.