The Las Vegas Raiders are bringing a lot of enthusiasm into the offseason. They concluded the 2023 season with a 5-4 record, which was excellent enough to earn interim head coach Antonio Pierce a full-time job.
Las Vegas has signed Tom Telesco, former general manager of the Los Angeles Chargers, for the same post. Telesco did an excellent job recognising talent in the draft, assisting the Chargers in acquiring talents such as Joey Bosa, Derwi James, Justin Herbert, and Rashawn Slater.
Now, the Raiders will try to capitalise on their success by upgrading their roster. With a projected cap space of $43.4 million, they can gain a competitive advantage when free agency begins on March 13.
Of course, the Raiders can’t afford to just throw money about. We’ll look at three impending free agents that Las Vegas should avoid.
Defensively, the Raiders should consider adding another pass-rusher to their rotation. Maxx Crosby is a top-tier sack artist, and Tyree Wilson, a 2023 first-round choice, could develop. Crosby, on the other hand, accounted for 14.5 of Las Vegas’ 46 sacks, with Malcolm Koonce being the only other player with more than five.
Another playmaker on the edge might help an improving defensive front become a great one.
Targeting another young edge-rusher in the draft makes a lot of sense. Las Vegas, like several other teams, may be tempted to take a gamble on 2020’s second overall choice.
Young was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in his debut season but hasn’t improved since. A torn ACL sidelined him in 2021 and 2022, and he was dealt to the San Francisco 49ers this season.
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