Alex Okafor, 4-3 DE
On the defensive side of the ball, the Raiders need to add to their abysmal pass rush. Oakland was able to muster up just 13 sacks in 2018, by far the lowest in the league. Every other team had at least 30.
The team seems to have a couple pieces to build around going forward in defensive tackles P.J. Hall and Maurice Hurst as well as linebacker Arden Key. However, the trio accounted for just five sacks, four coming from Hurst.
As the Raiders look to bolster their pass rusher, they need to look for talented 4-3 defensive end who have a knack for getting into the back field. Like wide receiver, the 4-3 DE free agent class is somewhat weak in 2019. Yet, current Saints’ lineman Alex Okafor can be a fit.
Over his six year career, Okafor has made 156 tackles with 22 sacks, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. He has made at least four sacks the past season with a high of eight in 2014. Despite battling through a knee injury in 2018, Okafor earned an above average 72 grade from Pro Football Focus, who highlights his pass rush ability.
While the Raiders biggest need is their pass rush, Okafor has a knack for getting into the backfield and stopping the rush. Early in the season he ranked as one of the best run stoppers in the NFL according to PFF. Oakland ranked 30th in the NFL, allowing 2,249 yards on the ground. Adding Okafor not only gives the team a potent pass rush option, but gives the Raiders a well-rounded defender who can shut down all facets of opposing team’s offenses.
To become a free agent, Okafor must opt-out and void his current deal. However, with the arival of first-rounder Marcus Davenport and the minimal $1.7 million salary, there’s a good chance Okafor enters FA looking for a better deal.
If that becomes the case the Raiders should be ready to pounce. Okafor is one of the better pass rushers on the market and one of the best 4-3 DE available. In Oakland, he would line up opposite Key or any EDGE rusher acquired in the draft and would help revitalize the team’s non-existent pass rush/run defense.
