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The Las Vegas Raiders have the makings of a dominant defensive front in 2024. But the potential for them to put together a game-wrecking unit would be enhanced if 2023 first-round pick Tyree Wilson improves upon a disappointing rookie season.
The 24-year-old’s lack of production wasn’t entirely under his control. He started out the year with a foot injury he suffered in college. He got healthy enough to play by Week 1, but he lost valuable time to prepare for the season and the results weren’t good.
Despite the lack of production from Wilson, the Raiders defensive front got better as the year went on. With Antonio Pierce taking over as head coach, Malcolm Koonce had six sacks over the final four games, giving Maxx Crosby a much-needed sidekick.
The Raiders further reinforced the defensive line by signing Christian Wilkins this offseason. He’s the interior pass-rusher who can bring everything together.
Wilson also has the frame to kick inside on passing downs, and he has a new perspective on what it takes so succeed in the league.
“Coming in from college, you think you’ve got everything figured out,” he told reporters. “But this year, I just slowed back down, started taking the coaching and just come out here and work. You gain respect by the actions that you put in, and it just really helped me take more steps up this year.
Wilson will have to show off that work ethic to earn a larger role in Year 2 on a Raiders defensive line that should contend to be among the league’s most productive.
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