Raiders: Pass rush will improve, and not just because of Crosby and Jones

Raiders: The pass rush will improve, and not just because of Crosby and Jones

Underrated signings and wildcards

The most underrated signing the Raiders made in 2022 was outside linebacker Kyler Fackrell. Fackrell has been a successful rotational edge rusher in his career and even put up 10.5 sacks in 2018.

That number was more of a result of opportunity and luck, but Fackrell has been a solid piece for several teams in his career and his familiarity with Patrick Graham should help solidify a role for him. Despite being a rotational player with the Giants and Chargers in recent season, he still put up 7 sacks and should be able to give Jones and Crosby a good breather.

The Raiders clearly prioritized him as a depth piece and that should prove fruitful.

A potential wildcard to this group is Tashawn Bower. Bower has been a mostly practice squad level player for most of his career but was on the Patriots for over two seasons. Bower seems to be a favorite of General Manager Dave Ziegler and could be a practice squad/depth piece this season, but Ziegler’s affection for him is notable. Bower profiles as an explosive edge rusher and if Ziegler is right and the Raiders can pull that potential out of him, it could take this unit to another level.