The Oakland Raiders have landed some significant free agent acquisitions since the start of the league year, and will look to be one of the most improved teams in 2016 on both sides of the ball. The Raiders improved their record by four games under first-year head coach Jack Del Rio last season, and general manager Reggie McKenzie is putting a strong roster together through free agency that's making Oakland a team to watch this upcoming season.
The Raiders solidified their offensive line landing free agent lineman Kelechi Osemele, and have reportedly agreed to contract terms to retain offensive tackle Donald Penn. While the Raiders look to solidify the offensive side of the ball with a strong offensive line, their defense saw a huge boost with the signings of linebacker Bruce Irvin and cornerback Sean Smith.
Irvin was a consistent playmaker for Seattle's defense in his first four seasons in the league, but the former first round draft pick believes he hasn't even scratched the surface of what he can do in this league. "I honestly felt like if I stayed in that (Seattle) system, I don't think I ever would be the player that I think I can be in this league, and that's being a pass rusher," said Irvin. "SAM outside linebacker is cool, but you can do your job the whole game at SAM linebacker and you'll have two tackles."
Irvin recorded 38 combined tackles and 5.5 sacks this past season, and was consistent in Seattle's defense for four straight seasons. The 28 year old linebacker joins former Super Bowl champion team mate Malcolm Smith in Oakland, and is looking forward to how the Raiders coaching staff will utilize his versatility and ability to get after opposing quarterbacks.
"I just want to be utilized more and get put in positions more to make plays. I really think Jack Del Rio and (defensive coordinator) Ken Norton, Jr., are going to do a great job of really allowing me to do that," said Irvin. The 6-foot-3, 260 pound linebacker is looking forward to playing in the Silver and Black's defense in 2016, and football fans across the country should keep a look out for the Raiders next season, as they look to be potential contenders in the AFC.
The newly acquired Raiders linebacker should see a rise in his numbers next season, as Oakland's coaching staff will look to utilize the talented playmaker's ability to get after opposing quarterbacks. While Irvin should see a rise in his numbers and production in Oakland, it's not necessarily a knock on Seattle, as their system has had continued to find success despite multiple changes in their roster the past couple seasons.
