The Las Vegas Raiders capitalize on massive mistake by the league following the 2025 NFL Draft

When it comes to the best pass rushers in the NFL, there aren’t many viewed in a higher regard than Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby. The four-time Pro Bowler has been stellar for the Raiders during the course of his career, having already totaled 366 total tackles, 59.5 sacks, 105 tackles for loss, and […]

Ryan Roberts — National College Football Writer
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Jah Joyner
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When it comes to the best pass rushers in the NFL, there aren’t many viewed in a higher regard than Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby. The four-time Pro Bowler has been stellar for the Raiders during the course of his career, having already totaled 366 total tackles, 59.5 sacks, 105 tackles for loss, and 144 quarterback hits in six seasons. 

In order to fully maximize Crosby’s impact, adding talent around him is essential for the Las Vegas staff. Getting pass rusher Malcolm Koonce back to full health will be important, as well as hoping to get more out of former first round pick Tyree Wilson in year three. Both of them happening would be huge for this Raider defense. 

Surprisingly, the Raiders didn’t prioritize strengthening that EDGE group during the 2025 NFL Draft, opting to retool the interior instead. While Crosby didn’t get more pass rush help for Crosby inside of the seven rounds, the Raiders did add an interesting one after the draft concluded. That came in the form of former Minnesota defensive end Jah Joyner, who the team signed as an undrafted free agent. 

Heading into the 2024 college football season, many people expected the 6-4, 262-pound pass rusher to take a massive step forward. The tools were easy to see, but Joyner needed to get technically more proficient. He didn’t see the jump he hoped, ending his final campaign with just 32 total tackles, six tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. 

That lack of production was the main reason for Joyner falling completely out of the draft. While not ideal for him, his talent could still allow for some developmental upside. Joyner is extremely long, and possessing nice closing speed to make himself a threat off the edge. There are clear building blocks to work with. 

It’s unclear what the path will ultimately look like for Joyner, who does enter the league with an uphill battle in front of him. There is clearly, however, opportunity in front of him. With his combination of size and upside, it’s going to come down to just how quick of a transition he can make. 

We know Crosby is fantastic, and Koonce can be a good pass rusher when healthy, but otherwise that room is an unknown. Joyner has every chance to make the roster in 2025, and set himself for a bigger role long term. 

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