The Las Vegas Raiders had a solid draft back in April but the team might’ve come away with a diamond in the rough with Max Richardson.
Linebacker reinforcements are always in need for the Silver and Black, despite the unit improving in 2020. While Nick Kwiatkoski and Nicholas Morrow stood out last season, the team could always use depth. More so than just depth, maybe a future starter. Richardson went undrafted back in April but inked a deal to join the Raiders back in May. At Boston College, Richardson played in 45 games since 2016, starting all 11 last season.
What are the Raiders getting with Richardson?
With training camp yet to take place, it’s hard to know what exactly Richardson can offer out of the gate. His collegiate production was impressive though, in fact, Richardson amassed 32 tackles for a loss over his career. Last season alone, he compiled 47 solo tackles and three and a half sacks. While at Boston College, Richardson earned several honors playing in the ACC. In 2019, he was first in the conference with 72 solo tackles and seventh in tackles for a loss with 14.
Richardson emulated his playing style in the style of former NFL linebacker and fellow BC alumni, Luke Kuechly.
“His style of play is run to the football and he really focused on the mental aspect of the game and anticipation, that’s how you have to play linebacker… That’s the mental aspect of the game because it’s not all about brute strength and speed.”
Cracking the roster will be a challenge but Richardson has both the experience and pedigree to make it. As Benedetto Vitale of Clutchpoints pointed out, even if it’s on special teams, Richardson has an opportunity to make it this year, given the Raiders’ constant need at linebacker. Also, the team has Gus Bradley in place, who’s made a name for himself developing linebackers, Richardson could be in good hands moving forward.
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*Top Photo: Paul Connors/Media News Group/Boston Herald