Raiders edge rusher Khalil Mack made history earlier this month, becoming the first player named a first-team All-Pro at two positions. The second-year pro played nearly equal snaps at defensive end and outside linebacker, garnering significant votes at both spots.
The Associated Press wasn’t the only body viewing Mack as a dual threat. The Pro Football Writers of America felt the same way.
Mack was named to the union’s first-team All-NFL team, which honors the league’s best players as voted upon by those who cover the league, as a defensive end and outside linebacker.
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The 2014 No. 4 overall pick has become one of the NFL’s strongest defenders against the run and pass. He had 77 tackles, 15 sacks, two forced fumbles and two passes defensed. He is among the top contenders for NFL Defensive Player of the Year, though there are other favorites including Houston’s J.J. Watt and St. Louis’ Aaron Donald.
Mack was the only Raider on the All-NFL team, but a total of four Raiders made the All-AFC squad. Mack was there at end and outside linebacker. Center Rodney Hudson, running back Latavius Murray and returner Taiwan Jones were honored among their conference peers.