Just like last year, it’s fair to expect the Raiders to be very aggressive in free agency as they look to add proven veteran talent to their team. While the offense is pretty much set outside of a No. 1 receiver, it’s the defense that is expected to get the most attention in free agency.
One position the Raiders could look to add talent to is on the defensive line. While Clelin Ferrell and Maxx Crosby both had nice rookie seasons, new defensive line coach Rod Marinelli loves to have depth at the position. And the one thing they are missing on their defensive line is a bendy edge rusher who can win with speed.
In a recent article by Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report, defensive end Robert Quinn was mentioned as a possible target for the Raiders in free agency. Take a look at Moton’s thoughts about the fit and why it would make sense for both parties:
As a defensive line coach in Dallas last year, Marinelli had a hand in Robert Quinn’s best performance since his 2014 Pro Bowl campaign. In 14 contests, the 29-year-old logged 34 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and a team-leading 11.5 sacks. With Las Vegas set to lose its second-best pass-rusher—Benson Mayowa (seven sacks)—to free agency, Marinelli may be able to lure a familiar face to produce pressure and become an example for Crosby and Ferrell.
If the Raiders were able to lure a talent like Quinn to Las Vegas, he would instantly improve their defensive line and would give the team three edge rushers they could rely on. And if the team is able to address their linebacker need in the draft, this is a defense that could get drastically better in a hurry.
Look for Quinn to be one of the few players the Raiders target early during the free-agent process.
