Raiders: Ranking the top 5 linebackers in franchise history
By Allen Settle
Honorable Mention — Khalil Mack, Raiders
Khalil Mack is one of the most interesting cases in team history. During his brief four-year window in Oakland, he was totally dominant.
He was able to crack his way into the top-20 in team history in tackles (231) and top-five in total sacks (40.5) despite appearing in only 64 games. His 68 tackles for a loss and 84 QB hits are also first amongst Raiders. And by a wide margin.
Mack made the Pro Bowl in three of his four seasons in Oakland (2015-2017) and was an All-Pro in 2015 and 2016. He also joined the legendary Lester Hayes as the only players in Raiders history to win the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year Award, when he did so in 2016.
While a heartbreaking trade to the Chicago Bears in 2018 prematurely ended what would have been a historic Raiders’ career, there is little questioning that Mack in amongst the best players to ever suit up for the franchise.
His short tenure as well as the fact that he is a natural linebacker, but played primarily on the line in Oakland make him difficult to rank. However, we cannot have a conversation about the best defenders in team history without mentioning his name.
Next. Raiders have offered a contract to free-agent Jadeveon Clowney. dark
What changes would you make to this top-five list?