After the release of P.J. Hall from the roster, where does newly signed defensive tackle Daniel Ross stand with the Las Vegas Raiders?
The Silver and Black recently decided to part ways with former second pick, defensive tackle P.J. Hall. The news is disappointing all things considered, for one, the Raiders could’ve picked a good cornerback instead of Hall. Second, he never provided relief at the position while failing to meet head coach Jon Gruden’s expectations.
Talent wasn’t the issue with Hall. Rather, it was a lackadaisical attitude and genuine lack of effort, Hall’s weight issues are evidence of this. Alas, Raiders brass had seen enough and moved on, and with the need for another defensive tackle, Ross found himself an opportunity. Much like Maliek Collins, Ross has a history with the team’s current defensive line guru, Rod Marinell. That said, how does Ross fit in with this unit?
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A Raiders Story of Redemption?
The 2019 season wasn’t kind to Ross, he didn’t play a single down due to an injury and to top it off, he had legal trouble. In spite of that, the familiarity with Marinelli and his 2018 numbers warranted a look. That year, Ross played in 13 games for the Dallas Cowboys and totaled 249 defensive snaps, seven hits, and one sack.
Though Ross will likely find himself behind Collins, Johnathan Hankins, and Maurice Hurst, there’s no reason to think he won’t have an honest shot in camp. Even with undrafted rookie Mike Manasiuk in camp, Ross has the advantage of having been previously coached by Marinelli. Despite a crowded defensive tackle room, you can never have too many of them that can get to the quarterback. It’ll be interesting to see how the position takes shape once the season gets here.
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*Top Photo: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
