1. Leonard Williams
Leonard Williams is one free agent that just makes too much sense for the Raiders. Williams, like Okwara and Hendrickson, had a breakout year in 2020, racking up 12 sacks, 57 tackles 14 for loss, and 30 quarterback hits.
His 30 quarterback hits were good for second among free-agent defensive lineman and his 12 sacks were only second to Hendrickson. His breakout year came as he was moved around the line a lot from inside over the guards and center to outside off the edge. This versatility would allow him to be another three-down defensive player alongside Crosby.
That inability to play all three downs is one of the biggest knocks on Clelin Ferrell. Nevertheless, he wouldn’t be expected to fill this role anymore with the addition of Williams. This would also allow them to play their better pass rushers in obvious passing situations.
As for what it would cost, Spotrac has his market value at just over $11 million per year. That would be an absolute steal if the Raiders could manage to swing a deal in that price range. On the other hand, this is the one free agent that price shouldn’t matter as he’ll provide a legit pass-rushing presence not only on the edges but inside as well. If the Raiders can walk away from free agency bringing Williams to Las Vegas it will be a winning offseason for them.
The Raiders need talent and they need it now. There are plenty of options available to them this offseason and while drafting a young stud isn’t out of the realm of possibility, that shouldn’t disqualify them from trying to bring in proven talent.
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