The Las Vegas Raiders obviously need a major improvement to their underwhelming pass rush from last season. There’s Maxx Crosby, and then there’s an enormous gap; then you have everyone else. But it doesn’t need to be that way.
Unless general manager John Spytek pivots and decides Crosby doesn’t fit his long-term vision, No. 98 will resume his duties next season. However, things cannot remain the same. That’s especially true when looking at the talent surrounding Crosby.
Tyree Wilson is trending toward “bust” territory and, barring a major leap, it’d be shocking to see him continue playing for the Raiders once his rookie deal ends. You also have Malcolm Koonce, who showed flashes but still disappointed returning from a devastating injury. There’s still hope for Koonce, but it’s far from guaranteed he’ll regain his form from two years ago.
Should the Raiders pursue Trey Hendrickson?
There’s no other way to cut it: the Raiders must heavily invest in their lack of pass rush if they’re to stand a chance in the AFC West. Luckily for Spytek, Trey Hendrickson’s services might be available. A perennial Pro Bowler and former All-Pro instantly gives juice to the complete picture: Crosby, the pass rush, and even a more defined identity.
It won’t matter who the defensive coordinator is next season when you have these two chasing down the likes of Patrick Mahomes and Bo Nix. It’s important to note that CBS Sports predicts Hendrickson might run the Raiders about $30 million a year; he won’t come cheap. Then again, anything that drastically improves your squad will never be found in the bargain bin. Spytek tried that route last offseason, and well, the results speak for themselves.
If Fernando Mendoza is indeed the Raiders’ first-round pick this year, the organization will need to follow the blueprint that’s made teams around the NFL successful. You load up on talent while you have your franchise quarterback on his rookie deal. As of now, Hendrickson fits the bill.
Thoughts, Raider Nation? Should the Raiders splurge on Hendrickson?
*Top Photo: Getty Images