Raiders' Malcolm Koonce looks back to 2023 form after dominant outing vs. Saints

The Las Vegas Raiders' defense has been top-notch so far during the 2026 NFL season, thanks in large part to Rob Leonard's ingenuity in multiple phases of the game. Their ability has really stood out in the fourth quarter, where they haven’t allowed a point in the first three games combined.

Another one of the main reasons for the defense's growth is the reemergence of edge rusher Malcolm Koonce. Koonce had a second half of the 2023 season that had fans wondering if they had one of the best pass-rush tandems in the NFL. But injuries have gotten the better of him since then.

In 2026, fans are starting to see the same player who was a rising star in 2023. Koonce has 11 pressures to start the year on limited snaps, and according to PFF, he has a win rate of 17.9%, which rises to 28.9% on true pass sets. PFF has him graded as an elite pass rusher on true passing sets.

Malcolm Koonce is making the most of his opportunities and showing signs of his old self

New Orleans was without its starting left tackle in Week 3 against the Raiders, and Kwity Paye was dealing with an illness, so it was time for Koonce to shine. He took full advantage against the Saints, logging six pressures, a sack, and a forced fumble.

However, where Koonce has progressed is in his ability to play the run and set the edge. Fans can tell that he got stronger this offseason, and it shows in the run game.

The play below is a great example. Koonce quickly sheds offensive tackle Asim Richards, leaving him in a bad position to make a block. Koonce makes a tackle for loss and a defensive stop. It was one of his two run stops on the day.

Of course, Koonce's specialty is still rushing the passer, which showed up big time on two plays. The first one was the strip-sack on Tyler Shough.

Koonce showed off his new pass-rush moves on this one, using a cross-chop move to win around the edge. Then he showed off his great bend around the corner for a beautiful hit that led to a huge turnaround in the game.

The other rush that helped seal the game was later in the fourth quarter. This time, Koonce turns speed into power and bull-rushes Richards into Shough, forcing an errant throw. Masses is in the perfect position and gets the interception.

Koonce has the talent to become one of the better pass rushers in the league. He is exhibiting why the Raiders gave him another contract after a disappointing 2025. With the film he is putting on the field, he might be in line for a bigger contract and a long-term extension.

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