Raiders find potential running mate for Khalil Mack in Arden Key

The Oakland Raiders selected edge rusher Arden Key out of LSU in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, 87th overall, following a trade with the Los Angeles Rams.

The Rams received the No. 89 and No. 217 picks for No. 87.

A first-round talent who fell due to off-field issues, Key should provide depth behind Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin. The Raiders ranked 31st in sacks last season.

Arden Key Bio

Position: DE
School: LSU
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-5
Weight: 238 lbs

Strengths

• Possesses long arms and excellent flexibility/bend around the edge.
• Fantastic 2015 and 2016 seasons show potential.
• Uses multiple pass-rush moves to beat offensive tackles and excels using rip technique.
• Elite wingspan allows for wide tackle range against ball carriers.
• Excellent body control and change-of-direction skills.

Weaknesses

• Comes with some off-field red flags. Left team last spring for personal reasons and underwent shoulder surgery in 2017.
• Light frame but is not very quick in space for his size.
• Not a fluid mover: long, tight strides cause segmented, unorthodox movements.
• Lack of core strength results in being driven backward at the point of attack, especially in run defense.
• Took a step back in 2017 after flourishing early in his career.

Athletic testing