Oakland Raiders: Top defensive ends to target in 2019 NFL free agency

Frank Clark, DE, Seattle Seahawks

There were some significant questions about Frank Clark when he entered the league back in 2015. Despite the off-field issues and general immaturity, the Michigan product has quietly developed into one of the NFL’s top young defensive ends.

That’s evidenced by the career-high 13 sacks he racked up this past season. After flashing potential and appearing on the verge of breaking out during his second and third years in the NFL, Clark finally found his footing and convinced opposing blockers everywhere that he’s a pass rusher worth taking seriously.

After serving in a reserve role as a rookie, Clark came into his own in 2016. Racking up 10 sacks and asserting himself as a force to be reckoned with, the Michigan alum enjoyed a case of the sophomore sensations. Although he took a small step backwards in 2017, he answered any questions during his contract year in 2018 with 13 sacks.

Now, he heads into the offseason as one of the top names scheduled to hit free agency. If the Seattle Seahawks don’t find a way to re-sign him (possible, but unlikely), there will be countless teams calling his agent to gauge what his asking price will be. Chances are it’ll be very high.

The Raiders absolutely need to be involved in those discussions if Clark becomes available. He’s only 25, has a proven track record and knows how to make quarterbacks’ lives miserable. Clark won’t come cheap, but he’s a talent worth pursuing this offseason.