The Raiders could be without outside linebacker Shilique Calhoun for a little while. The rookie had a procedure on his injured knee this week, the team announced. He’s been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Panthers and it’s not clear exactly when he’ll return. However, he is not expected to be out for the remainder of the season, Scott Bair of CSNBayArea.com writes. 
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The Raiders have been using Calhoun as the primary backup for Bruce Irvin and Khalil Mack. Without Calhoun, the Raiders don’t have another dedicated edge rusher to add to the rotation. Bair suggests that sixth-round pick Cory James, an inside linebacker, could take on that role since he did some work on the outside at Colorado State.
Using James to spell Irvin and Mack may not be ideal, but Calhoun wasn’t making a big impact in that role either. Through ten games, Calhoun recorded just nine tackles and a half sack. Alternatively, Oakland could promote James Cowser from the practice squad.