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Raiders Editorial: Keep Sean Smith, Release Williams

quick reactions
quick reactions

With the Raiders on the verge of a championship run, the team needs to examine their roster. Contenders never stand pat, signing talent, as needed. In the hope that Oakland shores up weaknesses, Reggie McKenzie must release DT Dan Williams and keep cornerback Sean Smith.

When Dan Williams signed with the Raiders, he signed with the expectations of creating interior pressure, taking pressure off Khalil Mack. While the 2015 campaign was successful in that regard, where Mack recorded 15 sacks while Williams recorded 33 solo tackles.

With the 2016 season a memory, it is time to examine the commitment to Williams. For one thing, he struggled, recording only 11 solo tackles, compared to 33 during his first year with the team. Not to mention, according to, rotoworld.com, Williams was “temporarily demoted because [he] reported to camp a bit out of shape/overweight.” Williams was later benched throughout the season, and perhaps, those health concerns are linked.


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On the other hand, many predicted signing the veteran, lockdown cornerback would be a great pickup, and a cornerstone of the 2016 free agent class. The team thought Smith’s signing helped their secondary while hurting a division rival. On the contrary, Smith performed poorly in the opener against the Saints. As a result, Del Rio benched him. A few more mediocre performances and RaiderNation wanted Smith bounced. However, there are a few things to consider:

1.) His 33 tackles only fell slightly short of his 40+ tackle seasons he averaged in Kansas City.

2.) The defensive line struggled all season long. Ranking near the bottom of rush defenses the entire season, exposes the DBs to longer coverage times. Twenty-five sacks will not help a secondary.

3.) Smith is in a new system. I’m not making excuses for him, but, let’s just say, year two of his contract year will be crucial

4.) Smith grew more comfortable in Ken Norton’s system. As the season progressed, Smith recorded two interceptions by week five. Unfortunately, Smith struggled with a lingering shoulder injury . CBSSports.com reported that doctor found Smith “unable to make a full recovery without surgery. He’s expected to be healthy and able to participate by the time offseason practices begin.” With that said, I believe Sean Smith returns to previous form and ready to compete in 2017. Expect Smith to bounce back in a big way.

 

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