HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Malcolm Koonce, a pass rusher for the Las Vegas Raiders, will be sidelined for the entire season due to a knee injury he sustained just before the beginning of the season. This information was confirmed by two sources familiar with the situation, who spoke to The Associated Press on Saturday on the condition of anonymity since the team has not made an official announcement regarding Koonce’s season-ending status.
Before their first game against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Raiders placed Koonce on injured reserve, indicating that he would miss at least the first four games of the season. One of the sources indicated that Koonce is expected to undergo surgery soon to repair a torn ACL, which is a significant injury for any athlete.
Koonce had a strong performance towards the end of last season, achieving all eight of his career-high sacks starting from November 5 against the New York Giants. Notably, six of those sacks came in the last four games of the season, showcasing his skill and potential as a valuable player on the team.
In Koonce’s absence, Charles Snowden, who was signed to the active roster after Koonce’s injury, has stepped in as a starter in both games, contributing with two tackles so far. This adjustment underscores the Raiders’ efforts to fill the gap left by Koonce’s injury and maintain their defensive strength.
On a more positive note, defensive end Tyree Wilson, who also sustained a knee injury during the game against the Chargers, is expected to participate in the home opener against the Carolina Panthers this Sunday, as confirmed by coach Antonio Pierce on Friday.
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