Oakland Raiders: Big names to target during 2019 NFL free agency

Demarcus Lawrence, DE, Dallas Cowboys

As previously mentioned, the Raiders have a rather glaring need at defensive end. Arden Key is the only legitimate edge threat currently on the roster, which isn’t saying a whole lot. Finding an established asset to pressure opposing passers in 2019 would be ideal for Oakland.

While Clark is certainly an intriguing option, Demarcus Lawrence may be the most tantalizing of the defensive ends set to become available in March. A nightmare off the edge, Lawrence would do wonders for a Raiders defense that’s completely incapable of making quarterbacks uncomfortable at this moment.

Much like Clark, though, Lawrence won’t come cheap. More than likely, the Cowboys are going to do everything in their power to keep him after slapping him with the franchise tag in 2018. However, if his asking price is too high for the egotistical Jerry Jones, don’t be surprised to see him hit the open market.

If that happens, the Raiders can’t afford to pass on Lawrence. Over his first five seasons, he’s tallied 33 sacks despite injury and off-field concerns. Although that may not seem as impressive as Clark’s total, watching the film makes it easy to see that Lawrence is the superior option. Just look at what his presence has done for the red-hot Dallas defense this season.

In all seriousness, Lawrence should be at the top of the Raiders’ 2019 free agency wish list. He’s arguably the best player set to be available this offseason, and he plays a position Oakland desperately needs to improve at.

Failure to pursue the 2014 second-round pick is not an option for the Raiders.