The Raiders are relying on defensive end Malcolm Koonce to make a second-year leap. In the 2024 NFL season, his role is expected to be a significant one. After an exhausting year of watching helplessly from the bench, Koonce can’t wait to get back into the game. He’s chomping at the bit to do something special for a franchise that went through an awful 2022 campaign. His partnership with fellow defensive end Maxx Crosby, who praised Koonce’s work ethic and dedication, could be pivotal in turning the team’s fortunes around.
Koonce and Crosby wreaked havoc as a pass rush duo throughout the 2023 season. Together, they totaled a staggering 22.5 sacks and 130 pressures in 17 games. Their personal chemistry off the field was just as evident. Koonce had a remarkable year, putting up a career-high eight sacks and 43 tackles, then finishing with an impressive 16% pressure rate or 38 pressures compiled in the final ten games. This impressive performance culminated in a standout three-sack game against the Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing Koonce’s potential as a key player for the Raiders.
2024 was an up-and-down year for Koonce, as he was injured for a long stretch, leading him to miss several games. Unfortunately, this major setback would keep him in the training room. In the meantime, the Raiders were struggling their way through a 13-loss season. After not going his way this time, Crosby remained positive regarding Koonce’s outlook. So for the first time, he boasted, “I’m sure he’s going to come back with a vengeance.” He emphasized that Koonce’s commitment to hard work sets him apart: “He’s a guy that shows up every single day and knows what it’s like to work.”
In reply to Crosby’s affirmation, Koonce told him he appreciates having teammates who know he is capable. “It’s great to be around guys that believe in you,” he stated. Now Koonce is preparing for the 2023-24 season with an emphasis on capitalizing on the chance that lies before her. He’s hell-bent on playing with Crosby and doing better shoring up a defensive corps.
With a one-year, $12 million free-agent deal, Koonce finds himself back in Las Vegas. This change is further evidence of the team’s confidence in his ability, and Koonce can’t wait to show what he can do after a wild year. Getting Koonce out there was a key part to feeling his way back to form after a month of training camp and two preseason games. Finally, he’s ready to SHINE… again!
Crosby highlighted their competitive nature during training sessions, remarking, “We’re two competitive dudes [who were] in the damn training room every day.” This camaraderie has created an unbreakable bond between the two players. It has equally ignited their quest for greatness between the lines.
Koonce is certainly beginning an exhilarating new chapter in his career. He shares some of his biggest lessons about doing public engagement the right way from over the years. “I’m more [focused] on where my feet are at right now,” he noted, emphasizing his commitment to the present moment and readiness to contribute to the team’s success.
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