Oakland Raiders undrafted free agents make strong impressions vs. Packers
DT Anthony Rush
According to Pro Football Focus (subscription required), Anthony Rush leads the team in stops with eight, but his impact extends beyond simple box score numbers. At 6-5, 350 pounds, he brings raw power to the interior with unique foot quickness for a defender his size.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
Rush does all the gritty work on the inside, eating up blocks, but he’s able to shed them and wrap up ball-carriers on runs between the tackles. He’s a cheaper alternative to 6-2, 350-pound Justin Ellis, who hasn’t played a preseason snap, with more upside.
Through three exhibition contests, Rush has already shown the ability to strengthen the Raiders’ 30th-ranked run defense from last year. Because of his height, he should be able to get his hands up to knock down passes at the line of scrimmage as well.
Eddie Vanderdoes hasn’t been able to play during the preseason because of a concussion he suffered early in training camp. Gabe Wright hasn’t shown much in one game. You have to wonder if Ellis’ non-existence in the exhibition is because he’s a lock to make the roster or if the Raiders are holding him out for a trade.
Five-year veteran Ethan Westbrooks should make the roster as a versatile defensive lineman who can play inside and outside, but Rush could become the next centerpiece of a stronger run defense.