Raiders: How the Defensive Line rotation could play out in 2022

Raiders: How the Defensive Line rotation could play out in 2022

Who is new?

With all the turnover on the defensive line, there are new players everywhere fighting for roles. On the outside, the Raiders added former Packer and Giant Kyler Fackrell as well as former Patriot Tashawn Bower. However, the real crown addition is legendary pass rusher, Chandler Jones. Jones leads the NFL in sacks since entering the NFL and the Raiders viewed him as a significant upgrade over Ngakoue.

Paired with Crosby, Jones should elevate the Raiders’ pass rush that much more.

Inside, the Raiders had an immense turnover. New General Manager Dave Ziegler and new Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham have made a plethora of additions on the inside in free agency and the draft. In free agency, the Raiders signed Andrew Billings, Kyle Peko, Tyler Lancaster, Vernon Butler, and Bilal Nichols.

The Raiders also spent 4th and 5th round picks on Neil Ferrell Jr. and Matthew Butler, two picks that were considered very good ones by draft experts. Only Nichols and Ferrell Jr. are likely guaranteed roster spots at this point, and Butler probably has an inside track as a drafted player, but there is open competition everywhere. Also on the roster are undrafted free agents Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa and Zach VanValkenburg.

The Raiders will likely make another addition to this group sometime in the next few months, possibly Darius Philon, once he is recovered from his injured knee. Philon recently visited the team again.