Yet again, the Las Vegas Raiders need to fortify their defensive line in the offseason. Last week at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, there were two defensive linemen that stood out above their peers. The Silver and Black must do what it takes to improve in the trenches. By selecting either or both of these players in the mid to late rounds of the 2021 NFL draft, they will be one step closer to having quality defensive line play.
William Bradley-King can do it all for the Raiders
During his first three collegiate seasons, William Bradley-King was a member of Arkansas State. He was a relentless pass-rusher that generated 14.5 sacks in that time span Most importantly, Bradley-King generated 8.5 sacks in 2019 alone. Not only was he a terror for opposing quarterbacks, but Bradley-King wreaked havoc in the backfield for opposing running backs as well.
His effort and football I.Q. are above average. Meanwhile, at the Reese’s Senior Bowl last week; he consistently flashed his ability and numerous members of the media took notice.
William is a player who can fill in as a solid rotational defensive lineman for the Silver and Black. Moreover, he possesses a unique blend of speed and power that enables him to consistently find a way into the opponent’s backfield. In short, Las Vegas could utilize a mid-round selection and yield great rewards from the former Baylor Bear.
#Baylor EDGE William Bradley-King is someone else who really shined in the American Defensive Line Group. Does a nice speed to power move to bull rush Alex Leatherwood and knock him over. Really nice rep from him here. pic.twitter.com/2z1puT7Qx0
— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) January 29, 2021
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Cameron Sample is a relentless defender
Tulane’s Cameron Sample is a versatile defensive lineman with no true position. However, his ability to make plays where he aligns is second to none. As a four year starter for the Green Waves, Sample accumulated 20.5 tackles for loss paired with 10.5 sacks in 41 games. Like Bradley-King, Sample is also a player who knows how to impact a game at any given moment.
While the Tulane standout had an impressive career, he was even more impressive at the Reese’s Senior Bowl last week. He showcased the lightning-quick first step that enables him to bully opposing offensive lineman before they are even set. The defensive lineman also displayed his power by relentlessly splitting double-teams. Moreover, his never surrender attitude on each play is something that few players possess.
Above all, Cameron Sample had an outstanding week and significantly improved his draft stock. For the Raiders, a defensive lineman with that kind of effort and talent would boost their front four. Look for the Silver and Black to potentially target the Tulane product with one of their mid-round selections.
3ï¸âƒ£ Reps, 3ï¸âƒ£ SEC Lineman, 3ï¸âƒ£ Wins
HAVE A DAY @cameron_sample #RollWave pic.twitter.com/paZIZTfP2Z
— Tulane Football (@GreenWaveFB) January 28, 2021
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Top Photo: A. J. Sisco/The Advocate via Associated Press
