Raiders activate DE Mario Edwards Jr; place Calhoun on IR

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Mario Edwards Jr. hasn’t played a football game that counts in over a year. A neck injury cut his rookie year short. A hip ailment obliterated this season’s first 15 weeks.

The Raiders defensive lineman is finally ready to return, and is expected to do so Saturday against the Indianapolis Colts. The team activated Edwards Jr. off injured reserve on Friday afternoon. He was on that list since the regular season’s start after suffering a hip injury in the Raiders exhibition finale.

His rehab went slower than many expected. He was careful to avoid setbacks, which led to gradual progress that was made easier to stomach when the Raiders kept stacking wins.

He’ll have a chance to ramp up activity over the next two games in order to prep for higher snap counts in the postseason.

Edwards Jr. became the team’s player designated to return nearly three weeks ago. He returned to practice then, and made steady progress during that preparation period.

Now he’ll rejoin teammates and help a lackluster interior pass rush. Edwards Jr. is a versatile piece who can play end and tackle, with solid play against the run. He should cut into rookie Jihad Ward’s playing time in the base defense and sub packages.

Edwards Jr. could be a real threat on passing downs, rushing next to Khalil Mack or Bruce Irvin on the defensive line.

Edwards Jr. came on strong as a rookie, with 42 tackles, two sacks and three forced fumbles. He would’ve been an integral part of the defensive front had he been healthy this season. He can still make a significant contribution down the stretch with his athleticism and versatility.

“He’s a guy that really plays hard, really good, athletic person,” defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. said. “Mario is very impactful. When he’s in the game, you’re going to know it.”

Rookie third-round pick Shilique Calhoun was placed on injured reserve in a corresponding move. Calhoun missed the last four games after having a minor procedure on his knee.

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