Khalil Mack is Everything the Oakland Raiders Wanted and More
By Gil Alcaraz IV
@GilAlcarazIV
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
It’s not very often that rookies, even first-round picks, begin their NFL careers by dominating their opponents on a weekly basis. That, however, is exactly what the Oakland Raiders are getting from outside linebacker Khalil Mack.
As soon as the Raiders spent the No. 5 overall pick on Mack back in May, it was assumed that the Buffalo product would take over as a starter for Oakland’s revamped defense. However, there were questions regarding how he would adjust to the size and speed of the NFL after developing at a small-time college program.
Well, if you had any concerns, it’s safe to say you can forget about them now.
In the Raiders’ first three games, Mack has been an absolute stud. While he hasn’t yet shown the pass rushing ability Oakland was hoping for, the rookie linebacker has been unstoppable when playing the run. He’s flying to the football when the opposing offense goes ground, and has racked up 19 tackles so far.
Mack is currently graded out as the top outside linebacker in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. His 8.5 rating against the run is by far the best around the league, with Von Miller coming in second at a modest 5.5. Put simply, Mack has been dominant, and he’s just getting started.
As Mack continues to adjust to the NFL game, expect the rookie to get even better. He was an elite playmaker during his days at Buffalo, and should have no trouble putting those talents on display as his career in Oakland matures. It’s only been three weeks, so he’s just barely scratched the surface.
While Raiders fans don’t have much to be optimistic about considering their favorite team is currently sitting at 0-3, watching Mack mature is a bit of silver lining.
Mack will only get better as the season rolls around, so stay tuned.
Gil Alcaraz IV is the Director of Content for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @GilAlcarazIV, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
Could Spagnuolo or Morris Be Giants' New DC?
Steve Spagnuolo or Raheem Morris could become the next defensive coordinator for the New York Giants, but which one gives them the best chance next season? Read More
Top 15 Possible Los Angeles Football Team Names
If Stan Kroenke's team moves out west without the NFL's approval, the league could force the team to leave their Rams' name in St. Louis. Read More
5 Cowboys Who Will Be Released Over the Offseason
The Dallas Cowboy are playing extremely well, but there are some players who should be released over the 2015 offseason. Who are they and why? Read More
5 Franchise Tag Candidates for Philadelphia Eagles
Without too many viable options, here are five possible players the Philadelphia Eagles might look to franchise. Read More
Five Improvements The Indianapolis Colts Must Make
The Indianapolis Colts are still alive in the NFL Playoffs, but it's never too soon to get ready for next year. These five changes will be vital for the Colts' success in 2015. Read More
5 Players Who Could Come Up Big For the Packers
These five little-known players who mostly fly under the radar could come up big for the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs. Read More
Austin Pettis is Solid Signing for Chargers
The San Diego Chargers recently signed Austin Pettis to a deal and it is a good move for next season. See exactly why here. Read More
5 Changes Jaguars Need to Make for 2015 Season
The Jacksonville Jaguars are already changing offensive coordinators, but what other changes should the team make for the 2015 NFL season? Read More
Christie Will Join Jones At Lambeau Field
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will be with Jerry Jones as the Dallas Cowboys take on the Green Bay Packers in the NFL divisional round. Read More
Rex Ryan Likely To Use Marc Trestman As His OC
If Rex Ryan becomes the next head coach of the Chicago Bears, fans can expect to see Marc Trestman back as the offensive coordinator. Read More
5 Areas for Jaguars to Improve Over 2015 Offseason
It's another dreary offseason in sunny Jacksonville. Here are five things the Jacksonville Jaguars must improve to get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2007. Read More
Flacco-Harbaugh Just as Good as Brady-Belichick
Looking at the playoff successes for the tandem of Joe Flacco and John Harbaugh, they actually stack up just as well as Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. See why that may actually favor the Ravens. Read More