What It Means:

Irvin had been linked to Seattle and the Atlanta Falcons, but it's the Raiders who have landed the former first-round pick. Being dubbed a "pass rusher" by the media, Irvin has just 22 career sacks in four full seasons. He's more of a strong-side linebacker and should improve that area of Oakland's defense. Irvin could also be asked to play defensive end after Justin Tuck retired, Aldon Smith was suspended and Mario Edwards suffered what's believed to be a potentially career-threatening neck injury as a 2015 rookie. Irvin's signing reunites him with DC Ken Norton, who coached linebackers in Seattle through the 2014 season. The Raiders had a boatload of money to spend, and have now landed offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele and Irvin.

Outside of Khalil Mack, Oakland's defense was pretty pedestrian in 2015. The Raiders ranked 22nd in Adjusted Defensive Net Expected Points per play.