For the second season in a row, the Oakland or Las Vegas Raiders tailed off after reaching six wins. Once in great position to lock up a wild card spot, the Raiders hit a snag and lost game after game. Head coach Jon Gruden is just three years into a ten year, $100 million contract, meaning he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
The biggest reason for the Raiders late season collapses: defense. They have done everything possible to improve their defense in recent years. Coordinator changes, draft picks, free agency, and nothing has seemed to work outside of marginal gains. They have invested heavily on defense, but are still far from finished.
Looking at team needs for Raiders
Whether it be a pass rusher, linebacker, or defensive back, there is no position that is off limits for the Raiders. They’ve had five first round picks in the last two drafts and have middling returns so far.
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For 2019, Clelin Ferrell and Johnathan Abram have been disappointing relative to draft expectations, with Josh Jacobs becoming one of the better running backs in the NFL. For 2020, it is far too early to make judgements on Henry Ruggs and Damon Arnette, but they certainly could have been better.
Right now, the Raiders currently sit at 17th in the 2021 NFL Draft after missing the playoffs again. They will have a great selection of players available , especially on defense. With four quarterbacks projected to go before then, some unbelievable players may be on the board at that point. Something important to note, the Raiders recently hired a new defensive coordinator, taking Gus Bradley away from the Chargers to be their new defensive coordinator.