The “Under the Raider” series continues with another player on the defensive side of the ball who looks ready to break out in 2009. Trevor Scott was a sixth round pick of the Oakland Raiders in the 2008 draft out of Buffalo who found himself co-team leader in sacks in his rookie campaign.
It is not usual for sixth round picks to become starters in their rookie years, but Scott did just that. Not only was he a starter, he became a factor as the season wore on.
In college, Scott started as a tight end, but moved to defensive end for his senior year. This is a move that paid dividends, as he was drafted by the Raiders. He showed flashes of becoming a pass rush specialist, stepping up as veteran Kalimba Edwards faded down the stretch. They ended up tying for the team lead in sacks with 5.
Edwards was released as part of the end of season purge. This, along with the uncertain status of former Pro Bowl defensive end Derrick Burgess means that more will fall on Scott’s shoulders this year.
Scott will likely combine with free agent acquisition Greg Ellis in passing situations. This duo will be called upon to get pressure on the opposing quarterbacks. To accomplish this, Scott has prepared for this season by bulking up. However, with his bulking up, he does not appear to have lost any of the speed that is key to him getting in the backfield.
In the offseason workout program, Scott has been all over the field making plays. He was able to get a good push and would have had several sacks if they had been recorded. He is also ready to assume the mantle of leadership, since he is surrounded by a young group of defensive linemen.
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