Raiders Rival: Tampa LB Devin White

Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ linebacker Devin White harbors a bit of a grudge. This Sunday, in Las Vegas, he intends to exact a bit of revenge. In 2019, the Raiders bypassed White, selecting Clelin Ferrell with the fourth overall pick. To the chagrin of just about every knowledgeable Raiders fan and media member, he is justified. For reasons to be explained later, he can make the case for one of the best players in that draft class. To this point, all White does , is make plays all over the field.

Coverage Ace

Now, when you think linebackers, keen coverage skills may not immediately slip into mind. Yet, White, blessesd with outstanding speed and agility, plays with a decisive explosion in space. White doesn’t panic surrounded by green grass. While his opponents make the catch, White shuts down any yards after the catch. Moreover, he’s only surrendered one touchdown through the air. The Raiders will see him around Darren Waller and Josh Jacobs/Jalen Richard on passing downs.

Evolving Blitzer

After a rookie season that saw him tally 2.5 sacks on 75 blitzes, he needed to improve. With his speed and explosion, the Raiders will need to account for him on passing downs. If their offensive line continues to acquit themselves well, Tampa will need to blitz. Sending White and allowing Levonte David to patrol in space, could force Derek Carr to get rid of the ball sooner. This season, White uses his hands and quickness over blinding speed. Sometime in the interminable offseason, White worked on his hand placement and vision.

Accountability Quote

“When B.A. puts the emphasis on something, you’ve got to get the job done or you won’t be the one doing that job. When he says things like that, he makes himself clear and you just have to be a pro,” linebacker Devin White said. “Coach said we’ve got to be a penalty-free football team to win games in this league.”

 Perfect

Versus the Green Bay Packers, White and the Tampa defense did not commit a single penalty. In fact, they played their best game of the season. the standout LB finished with ten tackles and a sack. As a result, he looks laser-focused on improvement.

Waller Relief

Despite White’s physical gifts, Darren Waller still towers over him. Additionally, Waller possesses the ability to leave linebackers in his wake. Expect the Raiders to target Waller often, daring the Bucs to deploy number 45.