Las Vegas Raiders DE Malcolm Koonce had a standout season, showcasing significant growth and contributing as a key asset to the team's defensive line alongside Maxx Crosby. In his fourth NFL season, Koonce demonstrated a career-best performance, registering 43 combined tackles, nine for loss, 17 quarterback hits, three forced fumbles, and eight sacks while starting in every game. Reflecting on his 2023 season, Koonce emphasized the importance of trust, staying focused on the present, and adopting a mindset of continuous improvement. Despite initially facing challenges with missed sacks, he managed to adapt and achieve notable success. As he prepares for the upcoming season, Koonce aims to assess his past performance, identify areas for improvement, and embrace higher expectations.

By the Numbers
  • Koonce's stats for the 2023 season: 43 combined tackles, 17 quarterback hits, 3 forced fumbles, and 8 sacks.
  • Maxx Crosby's performance: 14.5 sacks, marking a career-best for him.
State of Play
  • Koonce is in the offseason, reflecting on his career-best season and preparing for the upcoming one.
  • He is expected to play a crucial role in the Raiders' defensive line in the next season.
What's Next

Koonce will focus on self-assessment, addressing areas for improvement, and navigating higher expectations in the upcoming season.

Bottom Line

Malcolm Koonce's career-best performance and his mindset of continuous improvement are indicative of his potential to be a key player in the Raiders' defensive lineup. As he gears up for the upcoming season, his self-assessment and adaptation to challenges will be pivotal for his continued success.