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The NFL trade deadline is only a few weeks away and with the Raiders on a bye, the front office is likely making calls around the league on several players. And if we have learned one thing about Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden, it’s that they aren’t afraid to be aggressive.
If the Raiders do decide to make a move ahead of the deadline, who are some potential targets? Which positions could they look to upgrade? For the most part, the offense is set and should only improve once Richie Incognito and Bryan Edwards return to the starting lineup. However, the defense could use some help on all three levels
In a recent article by Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report, the site suggested the Raiders as a possible destination for disgruntled defensive end Carlos Dunlap of the Bengals.
Over the last week, Dunlap has been demoted in the starting lineup in favor of Carl Lawson. However, Dunlap has been an incredibly productive pass-rusher during his career, especially when coached by Paul Guenther. Here is a snippet of Moton’s thoughts on the Raiders and why they would be an ideal fit for Dunlap:
“Their defense sacked Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes three times in arguably its best performance of the season last week. Nevertheless, the Silver and Black are still tied for 25th in sacks with seven.
General manager Mike Mayock can bolster the pass rush with Dunlap, who played four seasons—which include two Pro Bowl campaigns—under Raiders defensive coordinator Paul Guenther in Cincinnati. Perhaps Guenther can tap into Dunlap’s strengths and rejuvenate his production as a pass-rusher.”
With Carl Nassib now nursing a toe injury, the Raiders could use some more depth on their defensive line. It remains to be seen if the Bengals will ultimately move Dunlap, but expect the Raiders to one of the first teams in line if Cincinnati decides to move the former Pro Bowl pass rusher.
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