There’s been a lot of talk about Khalil Mack’s versatility, but if training camp is any indication, he’ll spend the majority of his time in one place – the offensive backfield. Through four days of camp, Mack has been splitting time with the linebackers and defensive linemen, but CSN Bay Area’s Scott Bair believes defensive end will be his “primary spot” when the regular season begins.
Mack confirmed in May that he’d bulked up to around 265 pounds – up from 252 pounds as he’s still listed on the Raiders’ website. Most believe he will transition to defensive end seamlessly. A potentially elite pass rusher, Mack was also one of the most effective linebackers against the run as a rookie – and the added muscle won’t hurt.
#Raiders Notes: Mack chance to be top 3 DE by end of season. Might be there already.
— Andy Benoit (@Andy_Benoit) August 3, 2015
The biggest concern with moving Mack to defensive end? His replacement. Can Malcolm Smith or Ray Ray Armstrong come anywhere close to filling the void? Definitely something to monitor in the weeks to come.