The Raiders have added more talent to their defensive line this offseason, using their No. 7 pick on Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech). But one spot they could use more talent and depth is at defensive tackle.
They are hoping that Bilal Nichols can be better this season and that either Neil Ferrell Jr. or Matthew Butler can make a leap in Year 2. However, there is still room for another veteran defensive tackle in the group.
In a recent article by Alex Kay of Bleacher Report, he named five free agents that could help teams this year. That included veteran Shelby Harris, who was highly productive with the Seahawks last year. Here is what he had to say about Harris and what he can provide a team this season:
While his sack total came down after he matched a career high with six in 2021—the final year of a half-decade stint with the Denver Broncos—he earned a noticeable year-over-year improvement on his PFF grade, going from a pedestrian 61.3 to an above-average 73.2.
Harris would be a nice signing for any team that wants to improve its run-stuffing capabilities by adding a hard-working, high-IQ defender who is a strong finisher and can put some pressure on the passer.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if Harris doesn’t sign a deal until after training camp. But if the Raiders aren’t pleased with the play of their young defensive tackles, Harris could be a high-floor option for them later in August.
