The 2023-2024 season has officially come to an end and once again, the Kansas City Chiefs come out on top. But enough about last year. Let’s look forward to the 2024 season and how the Raiders can contend in the AFC West.
The Raiders want to become a more physical team on both sides of the ball this offseason and want to address the “spine” of their defense. That means safety, linebacker, and of course, defensive tackle.
In a recent mock draft done by Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus, he had the Raiders going defense in his first draft since the Super Bowl. Sikkema gave the Raiders arguably the best defensive tackle in the class, Byron Murphy II from Texas. Here is why he believes Murphy would be a strong fit in Las Vegas:
With no good quarterback option here, look for the Raiders to go defense. Cornerback is certainly an option, but I think they’ll focus on getting Maxx Crosby more help on the defensive line. Murphy is the total package — youth, length, strength and speed.
Pairing Murphy with not only Maxx Crosby, but also Malcolm Koonce and Tyree Wilson would give the Raiders a pretty athletic defensive line that can create pressure with their front four. Murphy is a top-15 player in this class and would fill a massive need for Las Vegas.
If the Raiders can’t pick a QB in Round 1, look for them to address their defensive tackle need. Murphy would be a fantastic option, should he fall to them at No. 13.
