Coming into the 2024 season, most expected the defense to be the strength of this Las Vegas Raiders team. On that unit, the defensive line looked especially impressive.
Arguably the most most intimidating part of that unit was expected to be the defensive line. Obviously, Las Vegas has their star talent in Maxx Crosby, but Tyree Wilson, Christian Wilkins and Malcolm Koonce were all expected to be difference-makers as well.
Unfortunately, Koonce ended up being lost before the season began. He missed the first two games with a knee injury, and was placed on IR before Week 1, meaning he had to miss the first four games of the season.
At that point, that seemed as bad as it would get for the Raiders. Then, it got worse.
This is a massive blow for Koonce. He had a breakout 2023 season, reaching a career-high eight sacks, and was heading into a contract year in 2024. All signs pointed to him having another good year, and receiving a solid paycheck as a result.
It’s a big blow for the Raiders as well. Crosby, Wilkins and Wilson have all been a banged up to begin the season, so having Koonce healthy would have been a massive help. Now, they’ll be without him for the remainder of the season.