Will Las Vegas add to position?
The Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackles position has had some changes. Here is a look at where the position stands:
New free agent added:
Leki Fotu, defensive tackle (New York Jets).
Free agent who departed:
None.
Current free agents:
John Jenkins
Free agents retained:
Adam Butler, Matthew Butler (exclusive rights), Zach Carter.
Free-agent visit:
Fotu.
Returners:
Christian Wilkins, Jonah Laula, Adam Butler, Carter, Matthew Butler.
Draft:
The Raiders could use some more depth here. But with other needs, it may not be a major area of early need. Perhaps Las Vegas will invest an early-Day 3 pick at this position, but expect more competition to be brought in and a free-agent could be brought into the defensive-tackle room as well.
Conclusion:
The key is getting Wilkins back healthy. He is the star at the position. Laula, a waiver claim last season, had a solid rookie season and should get the opportunity to continue to grow in this defense. Butler is an underrated and important piece as well. So, the Raiders have pieces here. It will be important, though, to have a good health and continue to develop youth at the position.