Raiders Reporter Hints at Physical Transformation for Former First-Round Pick

The Las Vegas Raiders have long been plagued by their poor decisions in the NFL Draft. Players like JaMarcus Russell and Henry Ruggs III are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to prospects that have not panned out for the Silver and Black.

While the last two drafts have provided several foundational players for the team, the roster is still filled with projects from past regimes that have yet to reach their potential in the NFL.

One of these players is defensive end Tyree Wilson, who was taken with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Wilson dealt with injuries early in his career, and despite the "bust" label he is often associated with, he has recorded 8.0 sacks in two seasons. He showed improvement between his first and second seasons, and Raiders.com reporter Levi Edwards noted that more changes could be on the way for the third-year edge rusher. 

"Heading into his third season, the former first-round pick has put on more muscle in his second consecutive offseason," Edwards wrote. "For Wilson to reach his full potential, defensive line coach Rob Leonard believes the biggest leap he needs to take isn't physically, but mentally."

While Wilson already has a large frame at 6-foot-6, he could certainly stand to gain weight. At just 275 pounds, he is a bit light for an NFL defensive lineman, which may have held him back at early stages in his career. 

There is no doubt that Wilson has the power and physical tools to be a great defensive end in the NFL, but coach Leonard may be onto something as it pertains to the mental game. Former head coaches Josh McDaniels and Antonio Pierce were not able to help Wilson reach his potential, but that is what Carroll is known for.

Perhaps this physical transformation will help him develop and Wilson will be in for a big campaign in 2025 alongside defensive line stars Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins.