Illinois Johnny Newton Talks Raiders

Originally posted on Las Vegas Raiders on SI
By Brayden P. Reedy | Last updated Mar 6, 2024 5:00 AM ET

The Big Ten Conference is known for producing a lot of NFL talent, both offensively and defensively, in the NFL.

There are many talented Big 10 defensive linemen in this year's 2024 NFL Draft class. One of those talented defensive linemen is Jer'Zhan "Johnny" Newton, a University of Illinois defensive tackle.

Newton spent a total of four collegiate seasons with the Illinois Fighting Illini. He played 44 games and finished with 187 tackles, 80 solos, 27.5 tackles for loss, and 18.0 sacks.

His best colligate season was last 2023 college football season and his senior season. Newton played 12 games and finished with 52 total tackles, 26 solo, eight and a half tackles for loss, and seven and a half sacks.

According to Pro Football Focus, Newton's highest defensive grade came from week eight against Wisconsin. He finished the game with a 94.3 overall defensive grade, an 83.5 run-defense grade, and a 93.5 pass-rushing grade.

Newton spoke to the media last week at the 2024 NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Newton had the chance to tell me that he had not met with the Las Vegas Raiders yet but was planning on meeting with them and shared his overall thoughts on the organization.

"I haven't had a formal meeting with the Raiders yet, but I will talk to them informally. "I like them a lot, honestly. They have Maxx Crosby and some great defensive linemen there. I really think that would be a very good fit."

Newton is a defensive lineman who is six feet two inches tall and weighs 304 pounds. However, because of injuries, he did not compete in any drills at this year's NFL Combine.

Newton could be a possible selection for the Silver and Black in the 2024 NFL Draft, adding more talent to the already stacked Raiders' defensive line.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.

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This article first appeared on Las Vegas Raiders on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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