The Las Vegas Raiders should take a long look at one of the SEC’s most underrated players, EDGE rusher Dayo Odeyingbo.
Vanderbilt isn’t exactly known as a football powerhouse. However, Odeyingbo is flying under the radar. The Raiders need help defensively, so it shouldn’t surprise anyone if most of their draft capital went to that side of the ball. The Texas native could be a steal late in the draft with the right coaching and right scheme.
Looking at the Raiders’ defensive line, they desperately need a talent infusion at both the EDGE and interior. The unit will need to generate more pressure from the inside but also finish the job on the outside and tally more sacks. Odeyingbo could help either aspect depending on how Gus Bradley and Rod Marinelli choose to groom him.
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What can Odeyingbo bring to the Raiders?
The six-foot-six Odeyingbo has impressive size, weighing in at 276 pounds. Watching his film, you can see his length and explosiveness, he knows how to move for someone that size. As far as collegiate production, Odeyingbo’s last two years at Vanderbilt were noteworthy. He compiled seven sacks, 20 tackles for a loss, and one pass defensed. Considering Odeyingbo played in the SEC, you should take his production seriously when you look at the offensive lines he played against.
The ability to disrupt the passing game and create chaos in the backfield is something the Raiders sorely miss. Odeyingbo’s spin moves and strength could help him fix that. Also, you can see his speed and length come in handy in defending the run. If properly coached, Odeyingbo could be an asset playing inside but could also be used as a rotational end while he develops further.
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*Top Photo: Associated Press/Mark Humphrey