The Oakland Raiders seem to be targeting Malik Jackson this year in free agency. Jackson played a large role in getting the Denver Broncos to the Super Bowl, so he will command a ton of money on the open market. The Raiders are one of the few teams that are actually in a position to make an offer to Jackson, who will be the highest paid player in free agency.
The Raiders have $71 million in salary cap space, so it is completely reasonable that they would take a run at the best free agent available. Not only do the Raiders have a ton of money, but they also have Jack Del Rio, the former Broncos defensive coordinator, who was with Jackson throughout the beginning of his career.
At 26 years old, Jackson will do nothing but improve his abilities on the defensive side of the ball. In 2015, he recorded 16 starts, 45 combined tackles, five sacks, seven pass defenses and a safety. After already a winning a Super Bowl in Denver, Jackson may believe that it is time to reunite with his former defensive coordinator.
He may be switching schemes from a 3-4 to a 4-3, but that is nothing he isn't used to. The Raiders could use him along this defensive line, as they will be starting Mario Edwards JR, who is currently dealing with a potentially career-threatening neck injury.
The only starter on the Raiders defensive line that actually has a chance to be a Pro Bowler is Khalil Mack, and he cannot do it all by himself. Putting Mack and Jackson together would solidify the Raiders pass rush. The Raiders will likely try to fill their defensive deficiencies with free agent acquisitions, as Sean Smith, Prince Amukamara, Janoris Jenkins and Casey Hayward will be the top available cornerbacks in free agency.
The Raiders will also need quality inside linebackers, as well, so they could pursue Jackson's teammates Danny Trevathan and Brandon Marshall to help the transition process. The other top inside linebackers will be Derrick Johnson, Daryl Smith, and possibly Rolando McClain.
The team will likely look to the offensive line in the draft, as it should target Taylor Decker or Jack Conklin. Oakland may also pursue Reggie Ragland, as he will be the top inside linebacker available in the 2016 NFL Draft. The Raiders have a great opportunity to take the next step with their franchise in 2016.
