NAPA -- Edge rushers get all the glory. Big sack totals and tackles for losses are attractive to the average NFL fan, and increase jersey sales by the bushel. The Raiders are looking for big numbers from Khalil Mack and Justin Tuck, who will bookend the starting defensive line.
The 649 pounds in between will be doing much of the dirty work. The Raiders will pair veteran Dan Williams and second-year standout Justin “Jelly” Ellis in the middle of a 4-3 base defense. Both players are stout against the run and proficient collapsing a pocket from the inside, doing hard jobs without much credit.