Raiders Draft Auburn's Crawford: Pass Rush Potential?

The Las Vegas Raiders have bolstered their defensive end position by selecting Keyron Crawford of Auburn in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft. This move comes as the team sought additional pass-rush talent beyond established players like Maxx Crosby and recently signed Kwity Paye, especially after trading Tyree Wilson.

Crawford, who previously played for Auburn and Arkansas State, accumulated 24 sacks over his collegiate career. His athleticism and quickness off the line offer immediate potential as a rotational pass-rusher. The Raiders anticipate utilizing his skills, possibly even as a 3-4 outside linebacker, offering a unique dynamic to their defense.

However, Crawford's game requires refinement. He needs to develop his run defense, as his current frame can lead to leverage issues against offensive linemen. Additionally, improving his recognition of RPO plays is crucial to avoid overpursuing and allowing big gains. His playing time on early downs will depend heavily on this development, though Crosby and Paye provide a foundational presence.