Arkansas edge rusher Landon Jackson is emerging as a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, drawing attention for his work ethic and dedication to film study. With the Las Vegas Raiders potentially losing edge rusher Malcolm Koonce in free agency, Jackson stands out as a viable replacement, inspired by Raiders star Maxx Crosby. Coach Pete Carroll emphasizes the importance of running the football to support the quarterback, a philosophy that has underpinned his successful offensive strategies. He also highlights the value of continuity in coaching staff and the collaborative approach in decision-making as essential for building a competitive team.

Khalil Mack is solidifying his legacy as one of the elite pass rushers in NFL history after a formidable start with the Raiders. Drafted in 2014, Mack quickly emerged as a dominant force, achieving 15 sacks in his second season and totaling 40.5 sacks in 64 games for the Raiders. Despite being with the Los Angeles Chargers, reports suggest he may rejoin the Raiders, especially if they seek to pair him with current star Maxx Crosby. With significant cap space available, the Raiders could make a move to reunite these two powerhouse defenders to fortify their defense against strong AFC West quarterbacks.

Jeff Hafley has made a significant impact as the Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator, quickly improving a unit that struggled previously. His success has already caught the attention of the New York Jets, who considered him for their head coaching position. Moving into the 2025 season, several critical questions loom for the Packers’ defense, particularly concerning key players like Kenny Clark and potential changes at defensive end.

Kenny Clark, who had an underwhelming season, is under scrutiny as the Packers contemplate their options at defensive tackle. The team could look to the upcoming draft to either support or eventually replace him. Meanwhile, the possibility of acquiring a star defensive end like Myles Garrett or Maxx Crosby remains open as the Packers seek to bolster their pass rush. This need for a potent pass rush was underscored by previous Super Bowl performances, which highlighted its critical role against elite quarterbacks.

The Las Vegas Raiders' defense continues to shine, largely due to the contributions of defensive tackle Adam Butler and defensive end Maxx Crosby. Both players have emerged as leaders in their respective roles, showcasing a strong bond that enhances their on-field performance. Butler, who joined the Raiders recently, has been a vocal presence, and his mentorship has significantly impacted Crosby's growth as a player. Crosby has expressed gratitude towards Butler for teaching him about teamwork and game strategy, establishing a dynamic that is crucial for their defensive success.

Butler emphasizes the importance of understanding the game from a broader perspective, noting that great players are often students of the game. Their chemistry on the field stems from shared strategies and trust in one another's abilities, allowing them to make plays even when faced with multiple defenders. This partnership not only boosts their individual performances but also strengthens the Raiders' overall defensive unit, making them a formidable force in the league.

Malcolm Koonce could be a prime candidate to fill the void left by Josh Sweat if he departs the Eagles in free agency. Despite missing the entire previous season due to an ACL injury, Koonce had a promising 2023 campaign with the Las Vegas Raiders, notching eight sacks over 17 games.

At 27, Koonce may be primed for a 'prove-it' deal, potentially with the Eagles, who are closer to a Super Bowl run than the Raiders. Meanwhile, big names like Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby are also on the Eagles' radar, although acquiring them would require significant salary cap management. The Eagles' GM Howie Roseman is known for his unpredictability in roster moves, which adds a layer of intrigue to the offseason.