The Las Vegas Raiders’ underwhelming performance last season was largely due to inconsistent quarterback play, but injuries to key defensive players also played a significant role. One notable absence was Malcolm Koonce, who was poised for a breakout year in 2023 before suffering a season-ending injury just days before the opener against the Los Angeles Chargers. Now set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, Koonce could attract considerable interest on the market, which is an unfortunate situation for the Raiders as he was just beginning to make an impact with the team.
However, Adam Rank of NFL.com recently predicted that Top star might sign a one-year “prove-it” deal with Las Vegas. While he is expected to be fully recovered by the start of the 2025 season, his injury could lower his market value, making a short-term deal with the Raiders a realistic option. Rank suggested that Koonce could take this opportunity to prove his worth before re-entering free agency in 2026 when he will still be just 27 years old.
“If I were him, I’d take a one-year prove-it deal and look to re-enter the market next offseason,” Rank wrote. “Staying with the Raiders is possible, but I’d prefer to join a team closer to a Super Bowl run, win a title, and then secure a big contract in 2026.”
Should Koonce choose to remain in Las Vegas, he would benefit from continuity, as defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and defensive line coach Rob Leonard will stay on Pete Carroll’s coaching staff. Given that Koonce is still recovering, re-signing with the Raiders might be the most practical option, even if he aims to pursue a more lucrative deal elsewhere in 2026.