The Las Vegas Raiders' success over the last two seasons has largely been predicated on having a stingy defense. Patrick Graham has remained the defensive coordinator through three different regimes now, so having him as a consistent piece has paid dividends for the Silver and Black.
In particular, the Raiders' defensive line has been difficult to contain when healthy, highlighted by star Maxx Crosby and a strong supporting cast that featured players like Christian Wilkins, Malcolm Koonce, Adam Butler and an emerging Tyree Wilson.
With Wilkins now out of the picture and players like Thomas Booker IV and Jonah Laulu answering the call, the expectations remained the same.