Raiders’ “Milk Carton” Vets Need to Step Up vs. 49ers

Raiders Beat writer Warren Mitchell argues that high-priced Las Vegas Raiders veterans must elevate their performance ahead of a Week 9 matchup against the 6-1 San Francisco 49ers. Sports Illustrated insider Hondo Carpenter singled out defensive linemen Kwity Paye and Malcolm Koonce, questioning their lack of production and stating the team cannot run effective coverage without consistent defensive pressure opposite Maxx Crosby.

Mitchell highlights that while Koonce ranks second on the team with 19 quarterback pressures, both he and Paye have struggled against the run with low Pro Football Focus grades. The article notes this poses a significant risk against San Francisco's top-10 rushing offense, adding that offensive center Tyler Linderbaum also needs to justify his top-paid status.