Raiders: A new linebacker poses a threat to earn significant snaps

As camp roars on in Las Vegas, one surprising name emerges as a contributor to the defense, and here, we lay out who he is, and how he fits.

For years now, fans of the Las Vegas Raiders have been accustomed to seeing their team’s defense line up in a 4-3 front. That will all change this year, with new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham bringing in a hybrid defense whose base is a 3-4.

With the change came one problem: There was no linebacker on Las Vegas’ roster who had experience in a 3-4. Keeping that in mind, the Raiders spent their offseason grabbing players who fit their new defensive scheme, such as linebackers with experience in their new look.

Jayon Brown was the most notable signing in this regard, with others such as Micah Kiser and Kenny Young who have all played inside linebacker in these 3-4 looks. While Brown is extremely likely to lock down a starting spot at inside linebacker, a surprising name has begun making a run at grabbing plenty of snaps for himself.

That player is former Arizona State linebacker, Darien Butler.

As camp heats up in Las Vegas, Butler is one name to keep an eye on. While players try to earn roster spots, some have already stuck out, and the rookie linebacker is one of those guys.

Who is Darien Butler and how would he fit in with this defense? Let’s get into it.