Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Raiders Draft Prospect: DE Brennan Jackson, WSU

Originally posted on FanNation Raider Maven
By Carter Landis | Last updated 3/9/24

The Las Vegas Raiders are looking for help on the defensive side of the ball in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Raiders, while strong on that side of the ball last season, could still add more talent and bolster that unit long-term. Under Coach Antonio Pierce and Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham, Las Vegas played like one of the best defensive teams in the NFL.

The Raiders have emphasized edge rushers in their defensive scheme, which is easy to do when Maxx Crosby is on the roster. Not only was he excellent as usual, but Malcolm Koonce broke out, and Tyree Wilson showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie.

Even with these three players having good seasons, the Raiders could add more talent to their defensive end group. A team can never have enough players to get after the quarterback, especially in the AFC West.

Washington State defensive end Brennan Jackson, a player with extensive experience, could provide depth in the later rounds. Jackson could fit well with the Raiders for that reason.

Jackson finished his Cougars career with 161 total tackles, 35 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles, an interception, and 20.5 sacks. He was a two-time Second-Team All-Pac 12 member.

Jackson is 6-foot-4 and weighs 264 pounds, giving him good size to be a defensive end in the NFL. He is tall, has a long torso, and a skinny lower body. His long arms and legs allow him to get leverage against his offensive lineman match-up.

What stands out about Jackson on tape is his ability to get off the snap and convert speed-to-power quickly. He can rush off the edge or on the interior, offering positional versatility the Raiders may covet. According to Pro Football Focus, Jackson generated 40 total pressures in 2023 and 24 run stops.

Jackson has the motor to succeed for multiple downs in the NFL, which may mean he won’t be bound to be a one or two-down player at the next level. If he can play the run and the pass, he will have a chance to thrive with lots of snaps.

However, Jackson will have to add strength if he wants to be a three-down lineman in the league. He sometimes gets overpowered off the snap and cannot recover.

Jackson is projected to be a day three selection in the draft. The Raiders could select him and add depth to their defense off the edge.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the No. 13 overall pick.

Ensure you follow on X (Twitter) @HondoCarpenter and IG @HondoSr and never miss another breaking news story again. Sign up RIGHT HERE for our 100% FREE newsletter that comes thrice a week and delivers all our best stories.

Please let us know your thoughts when you like our Facebook page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.

This article first appeared on FanNation Raider Maven and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: