Tyree Wilson Continues to Grow Into His Role

Tyree Wilson, the Las Vegas Raiders' rookie defensive end, had his best game as a professional last Sunday against the Chicago Bears. He looks to continue growing into his role.

Las Vegas Raiders' first-round draft pick Tyree Wilson takes another step in his transition to the National Football League. Sunday in Chicago, Wilson recorded his first career sack and his first career forced fumble. He led the defense with two quarterback hits and had the second-highest win-rate percentage on the team.

A player seeing his hard work pay off is almost as important as the hard work itself. With each passing week, what has been a gradual process for Wilson has started to show his growth and potential.  

“It's huge for all players," Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham said. "You do all this work throughout the offseason. You build up to a point where you get 17 opportunities that are guaranteed to you, plus the three preseason games, and you want to see a reward from your hard work, so it’s important for all those guys, and I'm just happy for Tyree to get the reward.

"Again, that's not the main thing. Obviously, he's set the edge for us in the running game. He's been able to provide pressure in the pass rush, he's dropped when we need him to drop. But in terms of answering your question, just the reward of all the hard work, it's important for all of them.” 

Las Vegas Raiders rookie Tyree Wilson recorded his first sack against the Chicago Bears / © Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

Wilson shared his feelings heading into Monday Night's game against the Lions.

"Working hard, preparing to put the best defense on the field," Wilson said. 

The rookie has improved his pass-rushing skills but has also been strong against the run. He looks to continue to play well in that area this week as the Raiders will face one of the better-rushing teams in the league. 

Setting the edge and stopping the run is his primary focus on Monday night.

"Stopping the run," Wilson said. "We struggled against the run last week. So, we're coming back this week, trying to dominate [against] the run as a defense and help the team get the W. Everybody has to be on their game and not take any plays off."

Wilson's ability to set the edge and pressure the quarterback will be useful on Monday night. A breakout game for the rookie defensive end would be a welcomed sight for the Silver and Black.

The Silver and Black will stay on the road to take on the Detroit Lions on Monday night, Oct. 30, at 8:15 p.m. EDT/5:15 p.m. PDT.

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