One of the most underrated moves so far in free agency has been the Raiders signing defensive tackle Maliek Collins. While he certainly doesn’t have the name recognition of a Cory Littleton or even Eli Apple, Collins might just turn out to be the team’s best free-agent signing this offseason.
According to Pro Football Focus, Collins had the eighth-best pass-rushing grade among interior defensive linemen. He also recorded an incredible 48 pressures in 16 games for the Cowboys. At only 24-years old, his best football is still might be ahead of him as he is only starting to scratch the surface of his ability.
According to ESPN’s pass-rush data, Collins had the fourth-best win rate of any defensive tackle last season. If they can find ways to keep in one-on-one situations, he could put up huge numbers in Las Vegas.
#Raiders DT Maliek Collins is one of the best interior pass-rushers in the NFL. pic.twitter.com/2DLqMaw16r
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) March 18, 2020
It will be fascinating to see how the interior defensive line rotation shakes out for the Raiders as defensive line coach Rod Marinelli is a massive fan of Collins. Could the Raiders slide Maurice Hurst to the 1-technique spot in order to get their best two interior rushers on the field? That is certainly a possibility. How do players such as Johnathan Hankins and P.J. Hall fit into the equation? What about Carl Nassib and his ability to play inside on pass-rushing downs?
If nothing else, Collins helps give the Raiders upside and depth at the defensive tackle position. Look for him to be the team’s Day 1 starter at under tackle and continue to improve as a pass-rusher over the next few seasons. If he can stay healthy, Collins has Pro Bowl potential at defensive tackle.
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