Key Takeaways:
- New head coach Klint Kubiak announces Raiders will switch to 3-4 defensive scheme
- Significant change from previous 4-3 under Patrick Graham
- Switch happening regardless of Maxx Crosby situation
HENDERSON, Nev. – New Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak announced a major change to the team’s defense on Tuesday, confirming the team will employ a 3-4 defensive formation.
I do see us being a base 3-4 team, Kubiak said. It is a significant change from the 4-3 scheme the team used under former defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.
The switch represents one of the first major philosophical changes under the new regime. Kubiak brings his own defensive identity to the team, prioritizing a formation that could maximize the talents of whoever lines up on the defensive line.
Star pass rusher Maxx Crosby could fit perfectly as an edge linebacker in this new 3-4 scheme, similar to how elite pass rushers thrive in Pittsburgh and other 3-4 systems around the league.
However, Kubiak acknowledged the team will need to address several roster needs to make the transition work. The Raiders will need to boost their linebacking corps and add true nose tackles to anchor the middle of the new 3-4 defense.
Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard has experience with the 3-4 from his time with the Baltimore Ravens and Miami Dolphins, providing continuity in the transition.
The change marks a new era for the Silver and Black on the defensive side of the ball.
Walk the Plank: This is actually a brilliant move by Kubiak. Here is a little known fact – all three of the Raiders Super Bowl championships came with a 3-4 defense. In 1976 (Super Bowl XI), 1980 (Super Bowl XV), and 1983 (Super Bowl XVIII), the Raiders won with the 3-4 scheme. That is not a coincidence. The 3-4 has been good to the Raiders throughout history. Adding Maxx Crosby as an edge rusher in this scheme could be devastating for opposing quarterbacks. This feels like a return to the Raiders roots.
