Oakland Raiders: After Amari Cooper, who’s next to go in a trade?
The Oakland Raiders dealt wide receiver Amari Cooper to the Dallas Cowboys for a first-round pick Monday. Should we expect more moves from the Silver and Black?
The Oakland Raiders sent wide receiver Amari Cooper to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a first-round pick, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, but why stop there? The rebuild under Jon Gruden will likely continue. Who’s next?
Looking at snap counts, defensive coordinator Paul Guenther has been conservative with defensive end Bruce Irvin‘s role. He’s played just 56.66 percent of plays on defense through six games.
It’s quite underwhelming that Irvin, who many expected to take on a leadership role after the team traded edge-rusher Khalil Mack, doesn’t have a full-time role as a pass-rusher. During the offseason, Guenther set the goal at double-digit sacks for the 30-year old with a move to defensive end, per ESPN.com’s Paul Gutierrez:
"“Obviously, we know what he can do as a pass-rusher. Hopefully, we can get him over a double-digit [sack] mark this year. That’s the goal for him.”"
Thus far, Irvin leads the team with three sacks and that could generate some interest for teams looking to boost their pass rush with a serviceable veteran player. Keep in mind, his ability to play strong-side linebacker also adds to his value.
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Safety Karl Joseph should keep his eyes on trade news. The 2016 first-rounder has lined up for just 11 defensive snaps this year. He’s also dealing with a hamstring injury, which may hurt his market price.
Joseph can use his quickness to blitz off the edge and possesses some potential as a cover safety. The 25-year old logged 10 pass breakups and two interceptions in his first two seasons. There’s one caveat, he missed 13 tackles in 2017, per Pro Football Focus. (subscription required). With more playing time and experience, the West Virginia product would have a chance to clean up his technique.
Here’s another intriguing name to watch: Gareon Conley. He’s played just 12 defensive snaps in the last two outings, zero against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 6. The coaching staff opted to use Daryl Worley, who’s on a one-year deal instead. It’s a strange move for a second-year player with so much potential.
Conley missed most of the 2017 campaign with a shin issue. He’s still a developing talent. Oakland signed Rashaan Melvin, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Leon Hall at the position during the offseason. Don’t forget about rookie fourth-rounder Nick Nelson. The Raiders have the depth and experience at cornerback to make a deal and move forward.
Remember, the previous regime (pre-Gruden) drafted Conley, which makes his standing on the team uncertain. His lack of playing time should encourage teams to place a call for him before the October 30th trade deadline.