The Las Vegas Raiders made the decision to hold onto more defensive linemen than any other position group on the roster on cut-down day. That turned out to be one of the best moves made by the previous coaching staff as the season went on. The Raiders take great satisfaction in their ability to identify and nurture their young players. Additionally, they made sure that most of their position groupings had a veteran presence. This was the case with Las Vegas’ addition of both young and seasoned leadership to the defensive line.
John Jenkins, a defensive tackle who has quietly had his best season of his career, was one of the team’s seasoned signings. Jenkins was having a season of a lifetime already. Subsequently, he scored his first touchdown of the 11-year career against the Los Angeles Chargers after returning a fumble 44 yards for a touchdown.
Because I’m a nose tackle, Jenkins remarked, “the referee always blows the whistle when we pick up the ball, and they don’t think we’re in the right.” But I just kept going for the first time. I simply took off, didn’t turn my head back, and kept moving after seeing my dog Maxx [Crosby] give the all-clear.” With his first NFL touchdown, Jenkins has now scored in every football game he has ever played. Since he was in college, this was his first score.
“Yes, college,” Jenkins responded. “Aside from peewee, I can now honestly say that I completed every level.” That’s a blessing, then, dude. Even I am unable to lie.Yes, I did have Maxx Crosby standing next to me. I’m also observing the Jumbotron. I kept an eye on my surroundings and kept my head up. That’s how I discovered it was six, then.”
It felt wonderful for everyone when Las Vegas’s veteran defensive tackle scored a touchdown during a challenging season. Moments like his touchdown, in Jenkins’ opinion, demonstrate both the defense’s advancement and the team’s continued closeness in spite of everything they have been through.
“Well, it was satisfying, wasn’t it? It’s been difficult, Jenkins remarked. For us, it’s been a volatile scenario. Ultimately, though, it’s evident that we still have the locker room. We continue to enjoy each other. We continue to build together and share that link. We therefore find it enjoyable. We simply take each day, each minute, and each game as it comes.
Yes, we gave it our all for everyone, dude. We are playing for anyone is inside this building. We are like that. It’s evident to all that, win or lose, we simply take advantage of every opportunity and chance we get to go out and swing.” It was encouraging to see the Raiders display a little joy and a lot of fight after their team seemed lifeless for the first eight games of the season.
On Christmas Day at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, the Silver and Black will play their AFC West rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs. On Monday, December 25, at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST, don’t miss it.
