One Veteran All Raiders Are Excited About His Return
One Veteran the Raiders Are Excited About: Malcolm Koonce’s Return
HENDERSON, Nev. — As the Raiders gear up for the 2025 season, there’s a growing sense of excitement around the return of a rising force on their defensive front — edge rusher Malcolm Koonce.
After a breakout 2024 campaign, Koonce is back and primed to play a central role in Las Vegas’ defensive resurgence. And inside the building, there’s a real belief that the best is still to come.
From Role Player to Breakout Performer
Drafted in the third round back in 2021, Koonce spent his first couple of seasons waiting behind veterans and learning the nuances of the NFL game. But last year, opportunity met preparation.
Koonce posted a career-high 8.0 sacks, added 15 tackles for loss, and showed consistent disruption opposite Pro Bowl pass rusher Maxx Crosby. What stood out most? His ability to win one-on-one matchups and bring pressure from multiple angles — something the Raiders desperately needed to take pressure off Crosby.
“Malcolm really turned the corner last year,” head coach [insert name if known] said during OTAs. “He’s earned every snap and has become a real weapon for us.”
Defensive Duo in the Making
While Crosby remains the heartbeat of the Raiders’ defense, Koonce’s emergence has given Las Vegas something they’ve lacked in recent years — a legitimate edge threat on the other side.
With opposing offenses focused on containing Crosby, Koonce is often left with favorable matchups, and he’s capitalized. The Raiders are expected to build on that momentum, giving both players more freedom to create pressure and collapse pockets.
“He’s got that juice,” Crosby said earlier this offseason. “You love playing with guys like that — tough, hungry, relentless. He brings it every day.”
More Than Just a Pass Rusher
Koonce’s development hasn’t been limited to getting after the quarterback. Coaches have praised his strides in setting the edge against the run and improving his discipline in coverage situations. He’s also grown into a respected voice in the locker room, particularly among younger players.
“He’s always been talented,” said defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. “Now you’re seeing the confidence. He’s doing the little things — film study, communication, leadership. That’s when a guy takes the next step.”
What to Expect in 2025
With continuity on defense and an improved supporting cast up front, the Raiders believe Koonce could be in line for a double-digit sack season. He’s expected to be a fixture in both base and sub-packages, giving the defense a more balanced and unpredictable look.
There’s still plenty of work to do for a team looking to break through in the ultra-competitive AFC West, but one thing is clear: Malcolm Koonce isn’t flying under the radar anymore.
“He’s just getting started,” said Crosby. “And we’re all fired up to see what he does next.”
