The Raiders defeated the Titans 20-10 on Sunday, with their defense being a pivotal reason why, specifically the defensive line and pass rush. The Raiders racked up 2 forced fumbles, 6 sacks, a 30%+ pressure rate, 2 fumble recoveries, a forced interception, and 9 quarterback hits. The Raiders defensive line has been spearheaded by Maxx Crosby though Las Vegas is starting to see other players consistently make strides and a constant impact.
Among these include Laulu, Malcolm Koonce, Tyree Wilson, Thomas
Booker, and Adam Butler. Focusing in on Laulu, the 2nd year defensive tackle has seen his snap count rise from his rookie season where he’s already played over 240 snaps compared to 474 as a rookie. Laulu had a strong rookie season logging 10 pressures, 20 stops, 1.5 sacks, a 6.3% win rate, 35 tackles, 3 TFL, and 2 quarterback hits. Through just 6 games in 2025, Laulu is posting 4 sacks, 17 tackles, 7 TFL, 2 PBU, 12 pressures, and a 7.1% win rate. Additionally, the 6’5/305 defensive lineman has added 10 stops. Laulu is on pace for 11 sacks and 14 tackles for loss along with 36 pressures. Originally a 7th round pick by the Colts in 2024, Laulu joined the Raiders as a waiver claim after preseason and he’s made a consistent impact since. A key reason for Laulu’s success could be related to how often the Raiders have focused on him as a 2i and 3T this season where he’s logged 82% of his snaps at. In 2024, Laulu logged just 43% at 2i and 3T with the majority coming at 5T. This change has allowed Laulu to consistently be working on the inside of the guard and the center 1 on 1 giving him the opportunity to utilize rip and swim moves that he’s possessed since college to win. Another massive jump, Laulu has seen himself snag a 44% run stop win rate which is good for 7th among defensive tackles, Laulu posted a 31% rate last season which was in the bottom 20 for defensive tackles. Additionally, Laulu is being double teamed at a 47% rate in the run game, 7th among all defensive tackles.
Laulu is consistently stacking strong performances and is looking to constantly build into what could be a vital piece for the Raiders defensive line going forward. After a sack, TFL, 2 quarterback hits, and a pass breakup vs the Titans a big test against the Chiefs is coming up for not just Laulu but the rest of the Raiders DL.
