The Raiders filled one of their biggest holes on Friday as they continue to revamp the defense. This time, they brought back one of their own free agents.
According to Jordan Schultz of ESPN, the Raiders are re-signing veteran defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins to a one-year deal. Hankins joined the Raiders in 2018 and has since started 60 games with the team.
Breaking: FA DT Johnathan Hankins is re-signing with the #Raiders on a one-year deal, per source.
In four seasons with OAK/Las Vegas, Hankins has recorded 172 tackles, 13 TFLs and 25 quarterback pressures. He reunites w/DC Patrick Graham — his former DL coach w/the #Giants.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 1, 2022
Hankins did turn 30 in March, but he is still a useful run defender. While his age might prevent him from being an every-down player like he was earlier in his career, he can still be a productive player in the middle of the defense.
Hankins played 567 snaps for the Raiders during the 2021 season, starting 14 games. Expect him to be back in the starting lineup in Week 1 as the team’s primary nose tackle/one technique.
The Raiders have added several interior defensive linemen this offseason, including Vernon Butler, Bilal Nichols, Kyle Peko and Andrew Billings. But look for Nichols and Hankins to be the primary interior defenders for the Raiders on most downs.
