It’s Week 2 of the preseason for the Las Vegas Raiders and full tilt into football mode is almost here. The Raiders face off with the Minnesota Vikings in this matchup, and again, though the outcome doesn’t mean much, some players need to show out. With the first round of cut days not too far away, these players need to have a notable performance to keep the coaches thinking. Here are three defensive players who need to shine against the Vikings.
Which players on the defense need to show out versus the Vikings?
Raiders DT Kyle Peko
Peko was brought along in the offseason to help bolster the defensive line. The veteran tackle has been around the block and can provide leadership, but last week he was only credited with one tackle. The Raiders looked at veteran defensive tackle Danny Shelton recently but decided not to pick him up (he went to the Kansas City Chiefs). The coaching staff must like what they see in the defensive line. If Peko has a good showing, it will go a long way towards confirming that.
Raiders DL Malcolm Koonce
The fan-favorite showed up all over the film last week with his performance. The young defensive end can provide some energy and a break for Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones. The team just wants to see him consistently bring it. How he performed in the first game was good, but can he do it again? Will he pick up a sack tomorrow? It’s not only the coaching staff but the fans that would love to see Koonce go off, but will he do it again?
Raiders DT Kendal Vickers
It was mentioned before that the staff must like the defensive line, and with Vickers, you can see the potential. Vickers had a solid game in the Hall of Fame game. He recorded two tackles and one sack. He was all over the field and returned after an injury. If he can keep up the play and the defensive line shows it has depth, the coaching staff and front office will look great for not signing Shelton.
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