Raiders Eyeing Chiefs’ Bolton to Strengthen Defense in Free Agency

Las Vegas, NV — The Las Vegas Raiders might target Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton as they approach free agency next week. With the need for a run-stuffing linebacker and uncertainty over their current roster, Bolton represents a compelling option within the AFC West rivalry.

Bolton, a standout second-round pick from the University of Missouri, has proven to be a tackle machine over the past four seasons, consistently accumulating over 100 tackles in three of those years. However, the 2023 season was marred by injury, as he missed nine games.

During his career, Bolton recorded a total of 169 defensive stops, showcasing his capability in stopping the run effectively. Last season, he achieved 30 defensive stops with a 9.4 percent tackle rate against the run, which placed him among the top 20 linebackers in that category.

The linebacker’s skill set is highlighted by his ability to overcome blocks, which allows him to remain effective on the field. An example is when he faced the New Orleans Saints. Bolton adeptly recognized a climbing center attempting to block him, swiftly pivoted, and used his athleticism to evade the block, ultimately positioning himself to make a key tackle near the line of scrimmage.

In another instance, Bolton executed a well-timed blitz against the Saints, where he disguised his approach until the last moment, causing the offensive guard difficulty in blocking him. His speed and football IQ enabled him to penetrate the backfield, resulting in a tackle for loss.

Bolton’s instincts are further displayed when the Atlanta Falcons attempted an outside zone play. He effectively read the center’s movements, flowing laterally to meet the offensive line’s shift. By running at a steep angle, Bolton anticipated the offensive lineman’s next move and capitalized on the opening to secure another tackle for loss.

In a separate matchup last season, Bolton showcased remarkable technical skills against Raiders’ offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson. Detecting a long-trap call by Las Vegas, Bolton adeptly modified his position post-snap and executed a rip move, allowing him to defeat Powers-Johnson’s block and maintain influence over the play.

Bolton’s awareness again shone when the Raiders opted for a halfback toss, where he immediately reacted to the play, working laterally to confront the pulling right tackle and secure another impactful stop. His physicality and reading of the plays demonstrate his potential as a disruptive run defender, making him a prime candidate for the Raiders to consider as they aim to bolster their defensive lineup.