Reviewing the inside linebackers for the Silver and Black, and how they fit in defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s scheme.
The 2022 off-season for the Las Vegas Raiders has been one for the history books. Not only has there been a widespread of memorable roster moves, from the Davante Adams trade to franchise shaping re-signings such as Derek Carr and Maxx Crosby, but Raiders’ owner Mark Davis elected to roll the dice with an entirely new regime.
When the season ended for the Raiders, it was time to search for a full-time head coach. With Rich Bisaccia’s interim status now expired, the Silver and Black had to make a choice: Extend Bisaccia, or head down a different path. Unfortunately for the ’21 Raiders interim head coach, team owner Mark Davis chose the latter, hiring Josh McDaniels to be Las Vegas’ new head coach.
With McDaniels came an entirely new coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.
Graham is one of the more unique defensive coordinators across the National Football League, and brings something to the Raiders they haven’t seen in years: A 3-4 defense, which is the opposition of the 4-3 defense the inherited roster was accustomed to.
Keeping such a change in mind, let’s dive into the inside linebackers currently on the roster, and discuss their fit in the team’s new front.