Oakland Raiders: 5 Of The Team’s Biggest X-Factors In 2015
By Kevin Saito
May 8, 2015; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. (97) at rookie minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Mario Edwards Jr.
Though some people are expecting big things from the Raiders’ second round pick, others are wisely tempering some of their expectations. The concern really, boils down to Edwards’ effort. At Florida State, it was inconsistent, and Edwards himself admitted to “taking his foot off the gas” and “coasting.”
Some remain concerned that his pattern of taking it a bit easier may make a return appearance. Though others don’t have the slightest concern about that happening.
But that’s the problem with Edwards – he is an athletic freak who can be a very gifted pass rusher who can really contribute to this Raiders’ defense, but nobody quite knows exactly what they’re going to get with him.
To hear Edwards tell it, that “coasting” he did back at FSU is a thing of the past, and he’s focused on being the best player he can be. He’s heard the criticisms and has taken all of the slings and arrows that have been shot at him. And he says that he’s more determined than ever to prove all of them wrong.
"“There is a chip on my shoulder from just naysayers or people that criticize me so much. Really, just I want to prove myself. I have a chip because I want to be the best that I can be. Other teammates and other people that came my way, I just want to go out there and prove that I am a good player.”"
And at least going through the early part of OTA’s, Edwards seems to be holding true to his word. His hard work and effort have been paying off in catching the attention of not just the coaches, but in also earning him the respect of one of Oakland’s defensive leaders – Justin Tuck.
"“I hear the things that people have said about him as a knock on him. That hasn’t showcased at all yet. He’s kind of bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in meetings.”"
That is most definitely good news for a Raiders defense that still needs a pass rusher. If Edwards can continue developing and playing at a high level, he could earn a starting job opposite Tuck. If that were to happen, it would give Del Rio and DC Ken Norton Jr., a lot of freedom and flexibility in how they use star in the making Khalil Mack.
They could perhaps, use Mack, in some sort of hybrid role where they move him around the defense a lot to keep the offense off guard and send pressure from a number of different angles – much in the way Denver uses – and has used – star Von Miller.
If Edwards can continue to develop and can become one of Oakland’s more potent X-Factors, that would bode very well for a defense in need of a little help.