Raiders linebacker James Cowser was utilized at OLB and defensive end in 2017, where he proved largely ineffective. However, his high motor, work ethic and above average ability means that he’s an asset that defensive coordinator Paul Guenther would like to keep around, even if it means he has to be creative to do so.

“We know last year he did a lot in the rush. We’re trying to make him a linebacker so we can utilize him on all downs,” Guenther said of Cowser during media availability Tuesday. “Just trying to teach him that position to give him a chance to get his feet wet in the middle. He’s smart, to make some of the calls for us. He’s done a good job. He asks great questions. He’s an intelligent player.”

Cowser is accustomed to spelling pass-rush artists defensive end Khalil Mack and linebacker Bruce Irvin, but the Raiders drafted LB/EDGE Arden Key out of LSU in the third round of the 2018 NFL draft. Key has first-round talent and coach Jon Gruden has raved about his ability.

The depth chart at middle linebacker isn’t nearly as stacked with LB Tahir Whitehead projected as the primary backup for starting the soon to be 36-year-old MLB Derrick Johnson.

Cowser measures 6-foot-3 and 244 pounds, so he has the required size to move inside. It remains to be seen if Cowser’s skills translate to the mayhem in the middle, however. Rushing the quarterback is a straightforward, simple assignment, and the MLB is in charge of making sure the entire defense is lined up often times.

If Cowser can give Johnson rest when needed it would be a huge boost to the club because it would free up Whitehead to play outside exclusively, which is where he is most effective. The switch is a great opportunity for Cowser, as well. The undrafted player out of Southern Utah is entering his third year in the NFL, and the more he can do as a player, the more likely he’ll be to stick around in the professional ranks.