It was recently revealed that the Las Vegas Raiders did their due diligence and inquired about a former player that they themselves shipped off.
That Khalil Mack trade won’t fade away…
You all know the story of Jon Gruden’s arrival to the Raiders in 2018. He arrived as if he was the Autumn Wind himself, pillaging the entire Raiders roster. Some said that former All-Pro Khalil Mack wanted out of the organization. However, in a recent story by The Athletic’s Vic Tafur, that narrative is laid to rest. You know that Gruden doesn’t love quitters, so why would he want him back? Just when many fans and pundits were ready to come to terms with the result, it’s apparent that Gruden was not earlier this offseason.
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Why would Gruden want Mack back on the Raiders?
It is a valid question, as Gruden’s ego has taken precedent in most personnel affairs. Whether it was hanging on to one of the worst defensive coordinators in Paul Guenther for three seasons or the Antonio Brown fiasco, Gruden gets his way until the grim end. For better or for worse, his judgment hangs like a cloud over the organization. As Las Vegas’ pass rush has been sparse since Mack’s departure, welcoming back the 2014 fifth overall pick would’ve been sensible. Despite what some say, Khalil is still one of the best consistent defensive NFL performers.
Happy 30th birthday to 6x Pro Bowler Khalil Mack!@FiftyDeuce | @ChicagoBears pic.twitter.com/zrjWB2Pcv4
— NFL (@NFL) February 22, 2021
After all, Jon did say he would bring Mack back.
The grim reality of Gruden and the Raiders in 2021…
No matter how you look at it, the Raiders this season are under insurmountable pressure to succeed. Whether it is Derek Carr, Gruden, or even Mike Mayock, the margin for error is razor-thin. With fans now allowed to attend Las Vegas, it will be the city’s first view of what the Raider organization is about. Vegas is a city of fun, entertainment, and spoils, emphasizing the former rather than the latter. Should the Silver and Black not make the playoffs this season, it will cast a large cloud of uncertainty over Sin City.
*Top Photo: Aaron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post
