Oakland Raiders Camp Battles: Outside Linebacker

July 10, 2012   ·   Christopher Hansen   ·   Jump to comments

One of the greatest weaknesses last season was the linebackers. A mid-season trade for Aaron Curry helped and he became a starter immediately, but there wasn't much at the position. Kamerion Wimbley was solid, but a much better pass rusher with his hand in the dirt than linebacker.
Quentin Groves played well on special teams, but his lackluster play as the starter prompted the trade for Curry. The 2011 linebacker group was poorly constructed and lacked depth and scheme versatility. When Reggie McKenzie was hired, he immediately recognized a need for linebackers and completely revamped the position. Only Curry remains from the last season's 53-man roster and the Raiders added five outside linebackers via the draft and free agency.
The Raiders will deploy a new defensive scheme in 2012, one that includes both three and four linebacker formations and blitzing. Curry's position appears secure for 2012, but beyond that will depend on his play. The starting strong-side linebacker p...

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