The Oakland Raiders have done a lot to improve their roster this offseason, filling most of their significant holes. But have they fixed their biggest need, which was their lack of a pass rush?
According to Kristopher Knox at Bleacher Report, the Raiders’ pass rush is still a weakness heading into this season. Knox ranked every team’s biggest red flag entering the season, and it was no surprise what he thought about the Raiders’ roster in 2019:
This is not the first nor the last time the Oakland Raiders’ woeful pass rush is going to be pointed out this offseason. The Raiders produced a mere 13 sacks as a team in 2018, which is unacceptable in today’s pass-driven NFL.
Yes, the Raiders drafted Clelin Ferrell in the first round to help bolster that pass rush, but even if he adds 10 sacks to Oakland’s total, that’s still an embarrassing number for an entire defense. The Raiders need a guy like fellow rookie Maxx Crosby or second-year man Arden Key to become a threat off the edge.
Even if this happens, the Raiders pass rush may still underwhelm throughout 2019.
The Raiders are going to rely on several young players to get to the passer, including Ferrell, Crosby and Key. But don’t forget about Maurice Hurst and P.J. Hall, who each impressed as a rookie.
The overall success of the team may depend on just how quickly these five players can produce. But make no mistake about it, if the Raiders struggle in 2019, it will likely be due to a lack of a proven pass rush.
