Is it finally Tyree Wilson’s breakout year? Pete Carroll thinks so – and he’s not mincing words about his expectations for the former first-round pick.
Wilson, taken 7th overall by the Raiders in 2023, hasn’t exactly lit the NFL on fire. With just eight sacks across 33 games and only four starts in two seasons, the edge rusher has fallen short of the impact Las Vegas expected when they invested such high draft capital in him.
“I really think this is his time,” Carroll told Raiders reporter Levi Edwards. “I’m counting on him to do stuff in a big way.”
Carroll’s not just blowing smoke here. He’s throwing down the gauntlet.
Raiders defense desperately needs Wilson to step up
Las Vegas is in a tough spot defensively. They need someone – anyone – to emerge as a legitimate threat opposite Maxx Crosby, who’s been carrying the pass rush practically by himself. The surprising release of Christian Wilkins this week only increases the pressure on Wilson to produce.
That move might actually benefit Wilson, who could see more snaps inside along the defensive line – giving him additional opportunities to impact games.
The clock is ticking loudly on Wilson’s development. While he’s been developing, the player taken two spots after him – Jalen Carter – has already become a Pro Bowler, second-team All-Pro, and Super Bowl champion with Philadelphia. That’s the kind of immediate impact Raiders fans expected from their top-10 selection.
Not all hope is lost, though.
Despite limited playing time last season (under 50% of defensive snaps), Wilson showed flashes that suggest there’s still untapped potential. According to Pro Football Focus, he generated 37 pressures – just one behind Kayvon Thibodeaux (38) and two behind Joey Bosa (39). That’s elite company.
His run defense has been a bright spot too. PFF gave Wilson a 72.4 grade against the run, ranking him 29th among 211 edge defenders – placing him in the top 15% at his position in that aspect of the game.
These numbers provide something for Carroll and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham to build upon. Wilson’s versatility to play both outside and inside gives the coaching staff flexibility in how they deploy him – especially critical following Wilkins’ departure.
But Year 3 is typically when NFL players make their biggest leap. If Wilson can’t significantly increase his production this season, the Raiders will almost certainly look elsewhere for pass rush help in 2025.
Carroll’s public vote of confidence isn’t just encouragement – it’s a challenge. The message couldn’t be clearer.
It’s now or never for Tyree Wilson.
