Clelin Ferrell had an up-and-down rookie season with the Oakland Raiders. For being the No. 4 pick in the 2019 draft, it’s easy to be slightly disappointed with his rookie season. Ferrell started 15 games for the Raiders, recording eight tackles for a loss and only 4.5 sacks.
Ferrell knows he must be better in 2020 as the team is relying on him and fellow rookie Maxx Crosby to create a pass rush. In a recent interview with Vic Tafur of The Athletic, Ferrell promised that he would be a “different” player in 2020:
“I’m just excited for the offseason,” Ferrell said. “When I come back, I will probably be a completely different player … You probably won’t even recognize me. Seriously.”
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) January 1, 2020
The most encouraging thing for Raiders’ fans has to be Ferrell’s progression throughout the season. He was significantly better in the team’s final eight games of the year, improving as a run defender and a pass rusher.
If Ferrell can continue to improve, then the Raiders could be set at defensive end for years to come. His progression over the offseason will be one of the big storylines to watch as the Raiders get ready for the 2020 season.
[vertical-gallery id=60348]
[lawrence-newsletter]