Raiders Defense: New Talent, Old School Coach, Ring Contenders

0:00On April 4th, the Las Vegas Raiders defense has taken hits from injuries and turned over for years, but they're flipping the script this off season. Front office brought in linebackers, Nikobe Dean and Quay Walker on smart deals, at a quiddie pay up front, and Max Crosby is locked in as there. Star. If these guys stay healthy, it could change everything. They've built a deprotation on the defensive line through drafts. No big names but versatile pieces for their 3-4 scheme. Rob Leonard steps up as defensive coordinator after coaching that line for three seasons. He knows them inside out. Head coaches hyped about Leonard's leadership, saying he's grinding early and late to get the staff synced. That continuity amid all the new talent gives the unit a real edge. Still need more depth at cornerback and safety, so the draft looms large for those spots. Plus, offensive upgrades mean fewer snaps for the D, keeping them fresh. With Leonard calling plays in fresh blood everywhere, Raiders fans might finally see a defense that contends for rings.