How Defensive End Wilson Can Build Off Rookie Season
Las Vegas Raiders rookie defensive end Tyree Wilson did not have the season he -- or Raider Nation -- hoped he would have.
Wilson appeared in all 17 games and finished his rookie season with 29 total tackles, two for losses, eight quarterback hits, a forced fumble, and three and a half sacks. According to Pro Football Focus, he generated 24 total pressures in 2023.
While 24 total pressures does not seem like a high number, Wilson generated 15 in the last five weeks of the season. He started to figure something out toward the end of the season, and it showed.
Coach Antonio Pierce talked about Wilson’s growth throughout the season, saying Wilson "didn’t have an offseason." Pierce is right, as Wilson sustained a foot injury at the end of his senior season at Texas Tech.
One way Wilson can build off the momentum of 2023 is to remain healthy and have an offseason workout plan. Getting in shape and working on his game will only help him improve going into his second season.
Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
Wilson showed he can be a solid run defender in the NFL last season. The pass-rush numbers weren’t where he wanted them to be, but he has the physical tools to beat offensive linemen consistently.
Wilson’s biggest knock as a prospect coming into the 2023 NFL Draft was that he was a raw athlete and was not very technically refined. If he wants to build off his rookie season and improve in year two, he must develop a pass-rushing move or two.
The Raiders maximized Wilson in his rookie season when they moved him inside and had him rush the passer on the interior. Because of Malcolm Koonce's emergence off the edge, Wilson might continue to play that role in 2024.
Wilson was effective against the run and pass inside, so if he is most effective there, Pierce and Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham might allow him to remain on the interior.
In addition, Wilson has the luxury of working with Maxx Crosby, one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL. He has the best of both worlds, as he will also learn from star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. Wilson can learn to rush off the edge and inside from two talented players.
While Wilson struggled in his rookie season, many factors are setting him up for success in year two.
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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