The Raiders Will Sign One of Malik Jackson or Gerald McCoy
On the surface this may seem like a very weird an convoluted prediction. However, both Jackson and McCoy have been mentioned as cut candidates and signing either seems like a very Gruden move. Both would be “big name” free agent veterans that could contribute in Gruden’s defense.
The Raiders did use two draft picks on defensive tackles in Maurice Hurst and P.J. Hall. Hurst impressed during his rookie season, starting 10 games and making four sacks. However, he did deal with a potentially serious heart injury prior to the 2018 Draft which led to his slide. Hall appeared in 14 games with the Raiders, but made just 22 tackles and no sacks. Coming from FCS Sam Houston State, it may take a little while for Hall to be fully acclimated into the NFL.
Adding Jackson or McCoy would shore up the team’s defensive tackle position. Jackson or McCoy would be able to play next to Hurst/Hall and would overall help the team’s pass rush. While it’s unknown exactly how much either would cost, there’s a strong chance Gruden and company are interested if either become available.
According to Daniel Popper of the Athletic, the Jaguars seem likely to cut Jackson this offseason. Jackson has reportedly already said his goodbyes and seems ready to leave the team. Jacksonville would save $11 million by releasing him and already have his replacement in Taven Bryan.
Jackson struggled in 2018, making just 3.5 sacks. However, in 2017 he was voted to his first Pro Bowl after starting all 16 games and amassing eight sacks. Jackson has been a healthy and somewhat consistent force throughout his time in the NFL. He already has experience in the AFC West, playing with the Broncos for four seasons.
ESPN’s Jenna Laine has reported that there is a “real chance” the Buccaneers release McCoy. Like the Jags, the Bucs already have his replacement in 2018 first rounder Vita Vea. Furthermore, the team has multiple free agents they’d like to re-sign and releasing McCoy saves them $13 million against the cap.
Jackson has put together a prolific career that includes six Pro Bowl nods and one All-Pro nomination. While his streak of Pro Bowls ended in 2018, he still mustered six sacks in 14 games. McCoy has at least six sacks the past six seasons including 9.5 in 2013. There’s a good chance he still has a lot left in the tank.
Whether it be Jackson or McCoy, the Raiders would likely be interested. Either gives the Raiders a veteran component to their young defensive tackles. Look for Oakland to target either DT should they be released.
