Much of the media attention has been on the influx of new Raiders rookie defenders but what about Arden Key? Many hope he can bounce back in his sophomore campaign.
Clelin Ferrell is expected to start from the outset this year and Maxx Crosby is likely to make noise and quite possibly compete for a starting spot as well. So it’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility that Key could find himself on the outside looking in if he doesn’t step up.
Arden Key: Will he live up to the hype in year two
Pro Football Focus shared an interesting tidbit via Twitter where they pointed out during the 2018 season, Key had 31 total pressures which were most on the team. This stat is two-fold since it shows that the talent and potential is there for something, albeit whether it’s special is up for debate. On the flip side, the stat leans towards the argument of just how pathetic the pass rush was last year for the Silver and Black.
#Raiders Arden Key ranked fifth among rookie edge defenders with 31 total pressures in 2018 🔑
Get PFF for all Raiders data:https://t.co/tLuFupIiH8 pic.twitter.com/Dx1ouJMGPt
— PFF Las Vegas Raiders (@PFF_Raiders) May 18, 2019
This is, however, a new year and with it the opportunity for Key to step up and take the next step. Brenston Buckner the Raiders defensive line coach under Jon Gruden recently shared some positives on Key via an interview with Scott Bair.
“He’s getting stronger and faster and more technical. He wants to master the technique and disciplines of playing defensive line. That’s what it’s all about.” – Coach Buckner on Key
We’re still quite some time from the start of training camp but it should definitely be a positive sign that Buckner has such praise for Key in the early going. What do you think Raider Nation? Will Key take his game to the next level in year two? Let us know in the comments and Ramble On!
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