Raiders Draft 2021: The Malcolm Koonce Selection

In surveying their rather anemic pass rush, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Buffalo EDGE, Malcolm Koonce. Yes, please get it out of your system about selecting a Buffalo pass rusher. Koonce and Khalil could not play any different with a diverse approach. However, what d Koonce will do is give a needed jolt to the Raiders. The defensive line, in glaring tones, needs to absolutely play better. Not to mention, the dearth of edge talent outside of Ngakoue and Crosby really hinders anything that Gus Bradley wants to accomplish. Immediately, Koonce serves a role, mission, and purpose.

Skills

From snap to whistle, Koonce brings the Raiders his most distinguishable trait. Without a doubt, the Buffalo EDGE seeks out the quarterback. The Raiders had to enjoy the bend and flexibility to slide under blocks, dipping his shoulder. Additionally, the rush base looks like it can sustain a combination of rapid development and enhancement. Koonce brings his hands into play, either with the swipe or a fairly quick discard of the block. When screaming around the corner, the Raiders will see a player that will bring the pressure from wide.

Role

Now, Yannick Ngakoue is the LEO type of player that serves as a centerpiece of Gus Bradley’s front seven. Meanwhile, Koonce will see special teams snaps before grabbing time in subpackages. With explosion, Koonce does not appear to sir on the outside for too long. As a result, expect plenty of preseason snaps and garbage time snaps, while polishing his game. The Raiders need Konnce as a piece of the puzzle, fitting in quietly. Depth in the front seven can’t be undersold. For years, the Raiders ignored quality talent. Now, slowly, with players like Koonce, they appear to change the narrative. Granted, Koonce may not be the solution, but his ability to get home will never be the problem. If quarterbacks continue to become more athletic, pass rushers must follow suit.