The Las Vegas Raiders’ long history of failed draft picks has come back to haunt them once again. A former second-round pick by the Raiders, has just signed a lucrative two-year, $9.5 million contract extension with the Houston Texans-proving his former team severely underestimated his value.
Defensive end Mario Edwards Jr., who was selected by the Raiders in the 2015 NFL Draft out of Florida State, lasted only three seasons in Oakland before being waived in 2018.
While injuries sidelined him for nearly all of the 2016 season, he showcased his talent when healthy. Despite this, the Raiders opted to cut ties, sending him on a journey across the league.
Edwards is an NFL wanderer
Since then, he’s suited up for seven different franchises, including the New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tennessee Titans. Now entering his 11th NFL season, Edwards has found stability and success in Houston.
Last season, Edwards played a key role in the Texans’ defense, recording 3.0 sacks, 31 tackles, and two fumble recoveries. His impact was significant enough that Houston locked him in with a new multi-million-dollar contract, ensuring he remains a force on their defensive line.
Can the Raiders turn things around?
Meanwhile, the Raiders continue to struggle with player development and retention. Over the past 25 years, the franchise has been plagued by poor draft selections, coaching misfires, and management blunders. Letting go of Edwards is just another example of how the Silver and Black have failed to recognize and nurture talent within their ranks.
While Edwards may never be an All-Pro superstar, he has built a steady, productive career-something the Raiders failed to capitalize on. As he thrives with the Texans, Raider Nation can only wonder how different things might have been if they had given him the chance he deserved.
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