The Las Vegas Raiders’ defense showcased resilience in their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, initially stifling the opposition by allowing just nine points through the first three quarters. However, cracks began to show late in the game as the Chargers scored 13 points in the fourth quarter, exposing a thin defensive front that may require immediate reinforcement.
The Raiders’ defensive woes began before the season even kicked off. Defensive end Malcolm Koonce was placed on Injured Reserve with a knee injury that could sideline him for at least the first four games, and possibly the entire season. Adding to the concern, Tyree Wilson, who was expected to step into Koonce’s role, also suffered a knee injury during the game, leaving the Raiders dangerously low on defensive end depth.
In light of these developments, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine has suggested the Raiders consider adding free agent defensive end Rasheem Green. Green, who was recently released by the Jacksonville Jaguars after a stint in training camp, has experience and could provide a much-needed boost to the Raiders’ defensive line.
Rasheem Green: A Reliable Option?
Green, a former third-round pick by the Seattle Seahawks in 2018, had his most productive season in 2021, starting 16 games and recording 6.5 sacks. Though he’s not known for his pass-rushing prowess—boasting only 19 career sacks—he could offer valuable depth and stability as a run defender. His college accolades, including First-Team All-Pac-12 honors, further underscore his potential value to the Raiders.
Yannick Ngakoue: A Veteran Alternative
Another name to consider is Yannick Ngakoue, who remains a free agent. Ngakoue, who led the Raiders with 10 sacks in 2021, has consistently been a strong pass rusher throughout his career, recording at least eight sacks in every season except for his injury-plagued 2023 campaign. While his run defense has been a point of criticism, his ability to pressure the quarterback could make him a valuable asset for the Raiders.
The concern with Ngakoue revolves around his recent injury—a broken ankle that affected his performance last season. If he can demonstrate full recovery and pass a thorough physical, he could be a significant addition to the Raiders’ defensive line. Ngakoue’s leadership and previous tenure with the Raiders as a team captain also highlight his potential to make an immediate impact.
Decision Time for the Raiders
With the current state of their defensive line, the Raiders face a critical decision. They need to address their depth at defensive end promptly to avoid further vulnerabilities in their defense. Signing Rasheem Green could provide immediate relief and stability, while bringing back Yannick Ngakoue could offer a higher ceiling if he’s fully healthy.
The Raiders’ front office will need to weigh these options carefully as they navigate their early-season challenges. A proactive move could not only stabilize their defensive line but also set the tone for their season as they seek to overcome early setbacks and remain competitive.
