The Las Vegas Raiders added a bunch of talent to the defensive line this offseason, and here is how the rotation could play out in 2022.
Ever since trading Khalil Mack before 2018, the Raiders have desperately searched for a consistent pass rush. Former Head Coach Jon Gruden fully committed to the idea during the 2021 offseason, making a bevy of moves to improve the pass rush that truly paid off as the Raiders had a fearsome pass rush in 2021 led by superstar defensive end Maxx Crosby and signee Yannick Ngakoue.
However, with Gruden and Gus Bradley no longer around, the Raiders have shifted their defensive strategy, focusing more on a 3-4 front, even though the team will feature multiple fronts and primarily nickel. Maxx Crosby will be shifting to outside linebacker while several other players will be shifting positions.
For the Raiders to do anything in the AFC West, they have to be better on the defensive side of the ball, especially with Russell Wilson joining Denver. They play elite quarterbacks in every division game, so getting a good pass rush will be paramount to their success.
With all of the new additions and schematic changes, there is a lot to sort out amongst the Raiders’ defensive line.