Oakland Raiders free agency 2018: Top 5 targets

4. Kyle Williams

Former Bengals defensive coordinator, Paul Guenther, is now in charge of the defense in Oakland. With the Bengals, Guenther had two very different types of defensive tackles. Of course he had Geno Atkins as an elite 3-Technique and up-field penetrator. But Atkins almost always had a nose tackle type next to him.

This Raiders defense has really struggled over the past few years to get any sort of pass-rush from anyone other than Khalil Mack. So adding someone more in the Atkins mold (which is easier said than done) makes more sense here. Last year’s third round pick Eddie Vanderdoes did some good things, but Justin Ellis’ contract is expiring.

While Vanderdoes shows promise, he doesn’t perfectly fit either mold that Guenther has employed at this position. Williams is one of the most underrated defensive tackles of this generation and while he might not be the wrecking machine he once was, he could hold down the fort until Oakland was able to find their version of Atkins. Williams also would provide much toughness and leadership. He can still rush the passer.

At 34-years-old, Williams might not be overly expensive and could be looking for a change of scenery to finish out his excellent career. Playing Williams an extensive number of snaps at his age probably isn’t smart, but if Oakland went into the season with a four man rotation at defensive tackle consisting of Williams, Vanderdoes, Mario Edwards and a rookie with upside, that doesn’t sound so terrible.