The Raiders invested heavily in their defense during free agency, including a major deal for defensive end Kwity Paye at $48 million over three years. Paye flashed potential in Week 1 but has been a relative non-factor in recent weeks. ESPN analyst Ryan McFadden highlighted the drop in Paye’s production.
“The Raiders signed Paye to a three-year, $48 million deal with the hope that he could improve their pass rush and be a reliable running mate to Crosby,” McFadden wrote. “His performance in the season-opening win over the Dolphins suggested as much. Paye recorded two sacks and five pressures.
“Since then, Paye’s production has declined drastically. In 154 defensive snaps over the past four games, Paye has six tackles, four run stops, three quarterback pressures and no sacks. He has been nonexistent to the point where Malcolm Koonce has made a strong case for more playing time.”
Paye Needs to Step Up
Maxx Crosby remains an elite player, but he cannot do it alone. When he receives help, Crosby becomes even more effective.
In the recent stretch, Malcolm Koonce has stepped up, logging eight tackles, eight run stops, 12 quarterback pressures and three sacks over 110 defensive snaps; his total of 17 pressures ranks second on the team. With opponents frequently chipping and double-teaming Crosby—who has a team-high 25 pressures—Koonce’s increased production could be crucial.
Raiders Not Losing Faith in Paye Yet
Despite the lack of impact, Paye played a season-high 49 snaps against the New England Patriots in Week 5. The team has shown patience, as Paye remains under contract and is still early in his tenure with Las Vegas.
The issue isn’t limited to Paye; the Raiders’ run defense has been underperforming, and Paye’s contributions haven’t substantially helped. Las Vegas intends to continue giving him opportunities, but if the production doesn’t improve, more opportunities may go to other players.
Malcolm Koonce has been more productive, even with fewer snaps against the Patriots, and he currently leads the Raiders with 3.0 sacks this season.
