Oakland Raiders: 5 Potential 2019 NFL Draft targets to watch

T.J. Edwards, Inside Linebacker, Wisconsin 

Wisconsin’s defense has ranked first, fourth and third in yards allowed over the last three seasons, and inside linebacker T.J. Edwards has stood in the middle of the unit for each year.

As a reliable tackler in open space, Edwards has accumulated 142 solo takedowns as a three-year starter. In addition, the 6-1, 244-pounder can drop back in short-area coverage to pick off a pass. He’s recorded seven interceptions over the past two seasons. Pro Football Focus delved deeper into intended targets in his direction:

Edwards isn’t aggressive at the line of scrimmage. Though, a strong defensive line can allow him to fly around the field tightening up loose ends and read the quarterback on short-to-intermediate throws.

The Raiders signed inside linebacker Derrick Johnson, who’s lost some juice as a downhill thumper, though, he’s still effective in coverage. He prepares for his age-36 season as a Band-Aid in the middle of the defense.

Sixth-rounder Azeem Victor could rise through the ranks to claim the spot after Johnson’s time on the field expires, but why not bring in solid competition? Edwards has shown the ability to chase down ball-carriers and cover the middle as a complete prospect on the back end of the front seven.