New Raiders LB Bruce Irvin: We’re ready to capture the AFC West

4:53 PM ET

ALAMEDA, Calif. — So, why, exactly, was Bruce Irvin signed by the Oakland Raiders this offseason … aside from the obvious?

“They didn’t bring me here to be a follower,” Irvin said following last week’s initial OTA practice. “I’m a very outspoken guy. You guys will learn that about me. I’m coming to be a leader. I’m not stepping on any toes, but if I have something to say, I am going to say it.”

So there.

Of course, Irvin was brought in to be a bookend to All-Pro defensive end/outside linebacker Khalil Mack, who racked up 15 sacks last season. So Irvin’s on-field resume, which includes 22 sacks in four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, more than speaks for itself.

Irvin’s intangibles, though, are what the Raiders are hoping truly translate to a relatively young and on-the-come defensive unit.

Bruce Irvin brings playoff experience with the Seahawks to a young Raiders team. Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire

“You wouldn’t think we were a 7-9 team last year,” Irvin said. “Talent is cool, but when you have a group of guys that can work and want to get better, it’s scary. Being in Seattle, I know the formula. I know what it is to be on a No. 1 defense. I know the grind of a 16-game season. I know when you get in the playoffs, it’s way harder.

“So, I’ll tell you this, when you get a bunch of …

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