HENDERSON, Nev. — Maxx Crosby’s announcement last week regarding the need for ankle surgery and his subsequent absence from the last three games of the season has dealt a harsh blow to the already short-handed defensive line of the Raiders. This line has also been without key figures like Christian Wilkins and Malcolm Koonce for a significant portion of the season, further diminishing its effectiveness.
Despite these setbacks, Las Vegas has managed to maintain a burgeoning pass rush. Out of the 32 sacks recorded this season, 12 have come in the last three games, placing them in a tie with the New Orleans Saints for the fourth-most during that period. This includes three sacks in their recent game, a narrow 15-9 defeat against the Atlanta Falcons, marking their first contest following Crosby’s decision to step back.
“We aim to be disruptive, achieving that through both sacks and pressure, creating discomfort for the quarterback,” commented Coach Antonio Pierce. “I thought that was evident in our performance last night.” Even with the absence of Crosby, Wilkins, and Koonce—who collectively contributed to 31.5 sacks last season—the Raiders have adopted an aggressive approach on defense.
However, filling the void left by these top performers isn’t straightforward. Consequently, the Raiders have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 26.9 points per game, ranking them 27th in the NFL. Contrarily, they remain 12th overall in total defense with a passing yardage average of 329.5 yards.
Nonetheless, the team’s substitutes have seized their opportunities, providing a glimpse into their abilities. “That’s essentially what happened for me,” said defensive tackle Adam Butler. “With injuries to others, I got more playing time, giving me a chance to prove my worth in this league.”
Butler, now in his seventh year, has started 13 games this season after not starting at all in the previous year, despite taking the field for all 17 games. His 13 starts this year are equal to his total career starts prior to this season. While he recorded five sacks last year in a backup role, he has already notched 3.5 sacks this season with three games remaining, including an upcoming matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Rookie Jonah Laulu is another player to benefit from the situation. Playing in his hometown, he achieved his first career sack during the game against the Falcons and has compiled a total of 10 tackles in the last two contests. “I am always thankful and grateful for this opportunity,” Laulu shared. “While I’m happy with my achievements, I feel there is still a lot to prove.”
Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham has effectively managed to maintain pressure on opposing quarterbacks despite the absence of his expected lineup, showcasing the adaptability of the unit. The effects of these changes are evident, as the Raiders rank 10th in pass defense with an average of 209 yards allowed over the past three games, successfully limiting two opposing teams to under 20 points.
“I can only speak for myself, but I feel like a soldier,” Butler noted. “If a teammate goes down, I’ll carry him forward if I need to. If that means I have to take every snap, then that’s what I’ll do.”
In quarterback news, Aidan O’Connell reported he is feeling optimistic about returning from a knee injury, preparing for the upcoming week as if he is set to start. “I’m feeling good enough to play,” O’Connell stated. “I’m treating this week just like a typical one, keeping up with my treatment.” Should he not be able to play, Desmond Ridder is prepared to take the helm for a second consecutive game.
Finally, the Raiders faced another setback in their backfield as Sincere McCormick was placed on season-ending injured reserve due to an ankle injury sustained in recent action. He had risen from the practice squad to start for the team. Additionally, Zamir White is also out for the season due to a quadriceps injury, while Alexander Mattison missed nearly a month due to his ankle injury before returning to face the Falcons.
