The Las Vegas Raiders made a significant offseason move by signing star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, a decision that has thrilled the coaching staff.
Wilkins is expected to have a substantial impact on the team’s defense. However, the excitement doesn’t end there. The coaching staff is also enthusiastic about the re-signings of defensive tackles Adam Butler and John Jenkins, who both returned on one-year contracts after their initial one-year stints in 2023.
Rob Leonard, the Raiders’ defensive line coach, is particularly pleased to have Butler and Jenkins back, both of whom previously played under him in Miami.
Leonard believes that their familiarity with his coaching style and their solid performances last season will make them key contributors again this year. He recalls how they were initially seen as mere camp bodies but proved their worth through their performances.
Additionally, Leonard is eager to see the development of 2023 third-round pick Byron Young. Despite struggling in his rookie season and being inactive for most games, Young has shown promising progress during the offseason. Leonard appreciates Young’s intelligence and effort, expecting significant strides from him in the upcoming season.
Overall, while Wilkins’ signing is the headline, the Raiders’ defensive line is poised for a strong performance with the return of Butler and Jenkins, and the potential growth of Young.
