Just like that, the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft has come and gone for the Las Vegas Raiders. General manager Dave Ziegler opted to go with arguably the best pass-rusher in this year’s class, Texas Tech’s Tyree Wilson. Following his selection, Wilson was asked about his newest teammate, Pro Bowl defensive end Maxx Crosby, and how he emulates his game.
“I’ve been watching him for a while. He’s a great pass rusher, dominant and a disruptive player that’s going to be relentless all over the field. That’s what I try to have my game at, be relentless and disruptive.”
Despite Georgia’s Jalen Carter still on the board, the need for a pass-rushing presence off the edges loomed large. Chandler Jones wasn’t the answer last season, and it’s unlikely he’ll suddenly regain form. At the same time, outside of Jones, there’s little to no depth in terms of the edge position. No one will ever question Crosby’s heart or motor, but it was quite evident that he alone wasn’t enough. With Wilson on board, the Raiders could finally have the version of “Salt and Pepper” they thought they were getting with Crosby and Clelin Ferrell.
“Relentless and disruptive” is exactly what the Raiders need right now. Rather than risk wasting Crosby’s prime years, Ziegler appears to be assembling a formidable defensive line. Considering the level of quarterback talent in the AFC West, helping defensive coordinator Patrick Graham get his pass rush up to par was of the utmost importance. If you get to the quarterback quickly and often, opposing receivers can’t burn out your defensive backs. If Crosby can continue developing and improving his closing and wrapping abilities, there could be something special brewing with him, Wilson, and Jones.
The Internet React To Tyree Wilson And Maxx Crosby Teaming Up On The Raiders…
Tyree Wilson and Maxx Crosby before Raiders games pic.twitter.com/qoHttfB0YT
— Josiah Johnson (@KingJosiah54) April 28, 2023
Tyree Wilson & Maxx Crosby in Las Vegas pic.twitter.com/xzoyQtLlkf
— Nico (@elitetakes_) April 28, 2023
Maxx Crosby and Tyree Wilson on the ends for the Raiders ?pic.twitter.com/r0X68zSKGS
— Footballism (@FootbaIIism) April 28, 2023
Maxx Crosby and Tyree Wilson may be appointment viewing
— Theo Ash (@TheoAshNFL) April 28, 2023