Oakland Raiders: Who Wins The 5 Key Position Battles?
By Erik Lambert
The Oakland Raiders know they’re good. They know they’re close to breaking through in the AFC to take a shot at the Super Bowl. It’ all about fine-tuning the roster.
That will require evaluation of several key positions that were in flux during the 2016 season. Positions the coaches and front office hope can be strengthened ahead of an important year for a developing roster. Sure Derek Carr will be back and Marshawn Lynch is in town. That’s good and fun but this will be a team effort. One that will require the absolute best players to play.
Defensive end: Mario Edwards vs. Jihad Ward
The Raiders are still searching for that defensive end who can play opposite Khalil Mack. They had him in Aldon Smith but the guy can’t stay out of trouble. Bruce Irvin has help from his linebacker spot but he’s not a pure fit for that role. This is why the upcoming battle between Edwards and Ward is so important. Those two hold the most promise but for one reason or another haven’t been able to realize their potential as yet.
Winner: Jihad Ward
Neither player had any sacks in 2016 but the reality is Ward was simply more reliable. Edwards has a long history of health problems. The biggest knock on Ward was lack of experience and poor fundamentals. Over time both those issues can be resolved with playing time and coaching. Smart money says he should be able to work through his problems. Likely he won’t be what Smith was, but he can still have an impact if the light goes on.