The Las Vegas Raiders prioritized revamping their pass rush by signing defensive end Yannick Ngakoue in NFL free agency.
The addition of Ngakoue provides a much-needed boost for a group that has struggled with consistency since head coach Jon Gruden’s arrival. Gruden was not shy about tasking the former Pro Bowler with leading a resurgence on this side of the ball.
Ngakoue was one of the notable absences from the team’s organized activities. Fortunately, he was doing his part by staying busy with his own workouts.
Ngakoue took to Instagram to show off the fruits of his labor with a more bulked-up physique.
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Ngakoue’s weight is currently listed at 246 pounds. The 258 indicates that he has gained 12 pounds of muscle thanks to his new regimen.
Ngakoue has established himself as one of the most consistent pass rushers in the league, having recorded at least 8.0 sacks in each of his five NFL seasons. However, it appears he plans on showing off his prowess as an every-down player, including run situations.
Fellow defensive end Maxx Crosby has made it clear that he is looking forward to working with Ngakoue this offseason. Although their meeting was delayed, Crosby says the pair have already been in contact with one another.
It is safe to say that Ngakoue is excited to get this new chapter of his career started with the Raiders. After all, some familiar faces are waiting for him in defensive coordinator Gus Bradley and defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson.
Ngakoue put up big numbers as a rookie under Bradley with 8.0 sacks, four forced fumbles, and an interception while they were together with the Jacksonville Jaguars. It will be interesting to see if the new build will help him kick things up a notch at Allegiant Stadium in the 2021 NFL season.
