ALAMEDA — Mario Edwards Jr. grabbed hold of Trevor Siemian’s right sleeve as the Broncos quarterback tried to escape. Instead of Siemian fleeing, Edwards slammed him to the ground, resembling a WWE takedown more than a football tackle.
Edwards’ third sack of the year came on the second play of the game last Sunday, setting the tone early for a much improved Raiders’ defensive performance. While Oakland’s defense has wavered between porous and stout this year, Edwards has been a constant.
The third-year defensive end from Florida State is finally healthy, and it shows. He’s second on the team in sacks through four games with three, behind only Khalil Mack’s four.