BREAKING NEWS: The Head Coach of the Las Vegas Raiders has terminated his employment with the team today….
The Las Vegas Raiders’ defense will be the identity of the team in 2024, as the unit will look to build off a strong finish from last season.
Patrick Graham’s defense allowed just 19.5 points per game in 2023, which ranked ninth in the NFL.
Vegas also made a humongous free-agent splash this offseason to add to their already stout defense, signing defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to a four-year, $110 million deal.
Though the Raiders’ uncertainty at the quarterback position is a cause for concern, Pro Football Focus’ Dalton Wasserman believes the Silver and Black could make a playoff push because of their underrated defense.
Here is what Wasserman had to say about the Raiders’ defense and why the unit breathes optimism into Las Vegas’ 2024 campaign.
Las Vegas’ defense has mostly flown under the radar nationally this offseason.
The defensive line, led by Wilkins, Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce, will be a matchup nightmare for any offense and has the potential to be elite, both against the run and pass. Though he had a lackluster rookie season, former No.7 overall pick Tyree Wilson could develop into a talented and versatile freak on the defensive line to make the unit even better.
The linebacker corps., anchored by Divine Deablo and Robert Spillane, provides an adequate mix of physicality and pass coverage. Deablo totaled 106 tackles and 34 defensive stops last season.
His running mate, Spillane, was one of the better linebackers in football in 2023, as he pulled down three interceptions, posted 148 tackles, and had 52 defensive stops.
Las Vegas’ secondary doesn’t boast many exciting names, but the unit has high potential heading into the season, which will only be aided by the front-seven.
Jack Jones will serve as the primary outside corner, and Nate Hobbs will handle slot duties. Both players had breakout performances last season.
The safeties, Tre’Von Moehrig and Marcus Epps, provide a fascinating blend of run support, leadership, and pass coverage on the back end.
Moehrig snagged three interceptions last season, and Epps scored a 69.7 run defense grade.
