Though Bruce Irvin quickly became a Seahawks fan favorite during his four seasons in Seattle, his departure in free agency was met with little resistance. Even as Irvin had transitioned from a part-time pass rusher into a SAM linebacker who rushed on passing downs, it still felt as though he was slightly positionless—worse, his production didn’t expand with his role. Ultimately, Irvin was an expendable part compared to the numerous high-level talents he entered the league, and lined up, alongside.
Upon signing with the Raiders, however, Irvin returned to his natural position as a defensive end, and flourished.