It’s past time for the Raiders to make a splash at defensive tackle. They have the edge rushers and some solid overall play on the defense. If they can add an anchor in the middle of that defensive line, they could be a real force on the defensive side of the ball.
There are a lot of good option that could be hitting the market next week. Here are the top give they should consider.
Chris Jones (29)
Arguably the top upoming free agent at any position. There’s a chance the Chiefs hold onto him with the franchise tag. But that isn’t a suer thing because they have a couple players to consider with the tag, and they can only use it once. The only question is his age. He’ll turn 30 in July.
Justin Madubuike (26)
Coming off a career year with 13 sack, while adding 12 tackles for loss. And he’s still just 26. He would add the instant pressure from the interior the Raiders need.
Christian Wilkins (28)
Prior to last season, Wilkins was a tackle machine, posting 89 and 98 tackles in 2021 and 2022 respectively. Last season, he took his game to another level, posting nine sacks, 23 QB hits, and 35 pressures. While still putting up 63 tackles.
Leonard Williams (29)
It’s a bit crazy to think a player with his production could be joining his fourth NFL team at the age of 29. The former sixth overall pick has twice been traded in his career, and twice slapped with the franchise tag, making this his first foray into free agency entering his tenth NFL season. Williams has played everywhere on the DL from DE to NT.
DJ Reader (29)
At 6-3, 335 pounds, Reader his a lane clogging nose tackle first and foremost. He offers some pressure up the middle, but that’s not what he does best. He works best as an immovable object to force runners to make other plans.
