November 9, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders outside linebacker Khalil Mack (52) runs onto the field before the game against the Denver Broncos at O.co Coliseum. The Broncos defeated the Raiders 41-17. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Bottom Line
The Texans had a Top-10 defense without him last year and this year, they’re No. 28 overall in the NFL now. Against the pass, where Clowney’s pass rushing was supposed to make an impact, the Falcons went from No. 3 to No. 31. Watt is still ballin’ and the one being game-planned for so Clowney is in a better position to make an impact but hasn’t.
The Raiders were No. 22 overall last year and with Mack this year, the Raiders have climbed up four spots. Against the pass, Mack’s pressure on the quarterback is having an impact as the Raiders went for N0. 28 last year to No. 12 so far this year. So even though the Raiders are going to pick first again next year, they did better than the Texans by picking Mack.