The Raiders Should Consider Adding to Their Defense
The Las Vegas Raiders entered this season to prove their defense had improved from last season, where they ranked near the bottom of the league in many statistical categories.
The Raiders made multiple additions to their defense during the last offseason, which paid off handsomely. It is safe to say the defense more than accomplished the goal they set last offseason, improving across the board this season.
The Raiders have a solid defense with formidable players at every level. Veteran defensive linemen Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce are among the best pass-rushing duos in the National Football League.
Safety Marcus Epps quietly had a productive season and helped bring a long one of the youngest defensive backfields in the NFL. The Raiders have a strong nucleus of players at cornerback, especially if Amik Robertson returns.
The addition of linebacker Robert Spillane could arguably be one of the best free agent signings any team made last offseason, as Spillane was one of the top tacklers and one of the best linebackers in the NFL this season. In Spillane, the Raiders have another veteran, dependable player they can build around, similar to Crosby.
The Las Vegas Raiders could be an addition or two away from an exceptional defense for years.
© Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
While the Raiders have Divine Deablo, who complimented Spillane well all season, and Luke Masterson, who is respectable in his own right, the Raiders have the chance to add even more quality players to an already talented defense.
The Raiders have the No. 13 overall pick this season. Now that new General Manager Tom Telesco has taken over, it is anyone's guess who he'll decide to take at that spot or if he will trade up in the NFL Draft for a position of need.
Much like Las Vegas wanted to prove their defense had improved from last season to this season, next season, they'll want to prove that this season wasn't an anomaly.
Las Vegas will likely be able to lean on Coach Antonio Pierce's ability to connect with players and Telesco's connections around the league to bring in free agents to help boost their defense. However, with their current draft positioning, the Raiders could land one of the top defenders in the NFL.
From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
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