Report: Raiders Potential Trade Partners for DL
The Las Vegas Raiders' defense improved mightily last season. Still, as they head into next season, they can improve even more with a few well-placed additions at critical positions, such as their defensive line.
Last season, the Raiders kept more defensive linemen on their roster after cut-down day than any other position. As they head into next season, they will need to focus just as much on the unit.
The Raiders have found pieces they can build around, along with Maxx Crosby, such as Malcolm Koonce and Tyree Wilson. Now, the Raiders can focus on finding veteran defensive linemen to add to their young, talented line.
Pro Football Network's Dallas Robinson thinks the Raiders should trade for one of the top defensive linemen. However, Robinson believes the Raiders must get creative to pull off the move.
"Although the Dolphins can hardly let Christian Wilkins walk for nothing, they’ll be hard-pressed to retain the standout DT, given that they’re more than $50 million over the salary cap," Robinson said. "Instead, Miami could franchise tag Wilkins (price: $20.943 million) before attempting to find a trade partner," Robinson said.
The Las Vegas Raiders must consider adding to their defensive line.
Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
"The Raiders should be willing to look into a Wilkins acquisition, which would allow (Coach) Antonio Pierce and Co. to supplement a defense that rapidly improved over the second half of the 2023 season.
"Wilkins, who played more snaps than any DT last year, might be a perfect fit alongside Maxx Crosby, who’s topped 900 snaps in four consecutive campaigns."
The Raiders are only a few pieces away from having one of the best defenses in the league. If they can add one quality, affordable veteran to every level of their defense, they should be in the thick of the playoff hunt next season.
"Las Vegas could offer the 42nd overall pick in exchange for Wilkins," Robinson said. "The Dolphins, who would receive just a 2025 third-round compensatory selection if Wilkins departed as a free agent, would likely accept."
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the No. 13 overall pick.
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