The Raiders’ pass rush was already shorthanded to begin the campaign, and the unit was dealt another blow on Sunday. Tyree Wilson suffered a knee sprain during the team’s loss to the Chargers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. 
Rapoport notes Wilson’s knee is intact. While further testing is yet to take place, that is an encouraging sign the worst-case scenario has been avoided. Nevertheless, Wilson could be in line for missed time, something which would exacerbate the absence of Malcolm Koonce. A knee injury suffered during practice this week landed Koonce on injured reserve, and he is in danger of missing the entire 2024 campaign.
Wilson was in line to handle an increased workload in the wake of Koonce’s injury. The 2023 seventh overall pick logged a 44% snap share as a rookie, although his production fell short of expectations. Wilson totaled 3.5 sacks, a stark contrast to the eight Koonce managed while operating opposite Maxx Crosby. Missed time will halt Wilson’s development, although a long-term absence may not be in store for him.
Given the injuries suffered along the edge, though, Vegas will likely be in the market for an addition. Head coach Antonio Pierce said on Monday general manager Tom Telesco is “working on” bringing in depth options at the defensive end spot (h/t Vic Tafur of The Athletic). It would come as no surprise if free agent workouts including some of the top veterans on the market were to take place over the coming days.
Carl Lawson, Yannick Ngakoue, Romeo Okwara and Shaq Lawson are among the most experienced edge defenders who are unsigned at the moment. The Raiders currently have nearly $28.5MM in cap space, so a short-term addition would certainly be feasible. How the team proceeds will no doubt be heavily influenced by Wilson’s prognosis, but Vegas will be worth watching in the near future with respect to a signing aimed at providing depth.