This story is free to read.

Raiders exercise fifth-year option on star defender Mack

FILE - In this Dec. 24, 2016, file photo, Oakland Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack (52) rushes against the Indianapolis Colts during an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif. The Raiders exercised the fifth year option of Mack, the team announced Thursday, APril 20, 2017. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year has compiled double-digit sacks each of the past two seasons. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File) FILE - In this Dec. 24, 2016, file photo, Oakland Raiders defensive end Khalil Mack (52) rushes against the Indianapolis Colts during an NFL football game in Oakland, Calif. The Raiders exercised the fifth year option of Mack, the team announced Thursday, APril 20, 2017. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year has compiled double-digit sacks each of the past two seasons. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)

By Associated Press April 20, 2017 1 min read

ALAMEDA, Calif. (AP) – Menacing pass rusher Khalil Mack had his fifth-year contract option exercised by the Oakland Raiders on Thursday, presumably keeping him with the team through the 2018 season.

The AP Defensive Player of the Year for 2016, Mack had sacks in eight straight games during one stretch last season and finished with 11 – the All-Pro edge rusher’s presence such that opponents sent multiple blockers his way but still didn’t stop one of the NFL’s elite defenders. He was part of 73 tackles, had his first career interception and touchdown, and forced five fumbles while recovering three.

And he did it all for a defense ranked 26th overall.

The 26-year-old Mack won last year’s AP award for top defender by beating out 2016 Super Bowl MVP Von Miller of Denver by one vote.

___

For more AP NFL coverage: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL