Oakland Raiders: 3 players to target ahead of the trade deadline

1. Carlos Dunlap, DE

From the unknown surprise to a well-known model of consistency, the Raiders could look to target an edge rusher at the deadline as well. And one of the more intriguing names on the market could be Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Carlos Dunlap.

Dunlap has been one of the more reliable sack producers in the NFL for years having not totaled fewer than 7.5 sacks since the 2012 season. In fact, he’s only managed to record fewer than six sacks once in his career and that came way back in 2011.

More from Golden Gate Sports

• Raiders: Rookie stock report following Week 3 performance
• 49ers sign new long snapper amidst a flurry of roster moves
• Oakland Athletics win Game 2 of Wild Card round with late-inning drama
• 49ers: George Kittle and Deebo Samuel cleared to return to practice
• 49ers expected to place DE Dee Ford on injured reserve

The Bengals, however, could look to move their talented pass rusher given his contract and their desire to tear everything down and rebuild. Dunlap is already 30-years-old and is only on the second year of a four-year contract making this a risky proposition.

But Dunlap’s pedigree speaks for itself, even if he is in the midst of a down year.

The former Florida standout has been out of action since Week 5 dealing with a knee injury but has been amazingly durable throughout his career. Prior to his injury, Dunlap had been active for each of his last 101 games making for an incredible streak of health.

He is a big name, but given his contract and subpar season, his price tag likely won’t be as high as expected. The Raiders could likely grab him for a mid-round pick and help solidify an improved, but still weak pass rush.

And it definitely helps that he has a connection with current Raiders defensive coordinator Paul Guenther from their time together in Cincinnati.

All three targets would be solid moves, but Dunlap would certainly be the most high-profile and perhaps the most impactful.