Raiders

Pick ‘Em: Raiders Mock Draft 4.0

Listen to Jon Gruden closely and long enough and one can get a taste of what his Oakland Raiders roster will look like. Or at least, what the head coach wants it to look like. Last week’s NFL owners meetings in Orlando was no different.

Gruden pinpointed an issue that plagued the team since it took Khalil Mack with the fifth overall pick back in 2014.

“If we can get a better inside rush, a consistent inside rush, a dominant inside rusher, you’ll see the best of this guy,” Gruden said when referring to Mack, the Raiders best defender.

The coach went on to specifically identify defensive lineman Mario Edwards Jr., but the statement that followed can be applied to anyone.

“If we can get that inside rush going, that’s what Warren Sapp did for Simeon Rice,” Gruden said, “It’s hard for a quarterback to step up and if a quarterback can’t step up, these great pass rushers can feast.”

Pick ‘Em: Raiders Mock Draft 4.0

The Raiders (and its fanbase) have been famished for an inside disruptor. And this mock draft has Gruden and general manager Reggie McKenzie nabbing one with Oakland’s first pick.

Round 1: 10th overall

Maurice Hurst, DT, Michigan

Previous: Vita Vea, DT, Washington

Matters of the heart haven’t swayed McKenzie from taking a prospect in round one (see cornerback DJ Hayden). After having been cleared of a heart ailment, this former Michigan Wolverine is armed with a lethal first step and a barrage of pass rush moves to make an impact as an interior destroyer. Hurst’s motor is without question as he is relentless in his pursuit to get to the quarterback. Gruden expects the Raiders to run a 4-3 one-gap scheme similar to what the Bengals ran and Hurst would play the Geno Atkins role. (Vita Vea would play the Domata Peko role if he’s chosen instead).

Round 2: 41st overall

Josh Jackson, CB, Iowa

Previous: Sony Michel, RB, Georgia

Gruden identified the Raiders secondary as a big weak spot as well and the team nabs a ballhawk corner who slides out of the first round. The former Hawkeye isn’t a supreme tackler, he does bring premium ball skills to the fold. And with the Raiders secondary’s inability to consistently snag interceptions, Jackson’s addition is more than welcome.

Round 3: 75th overall

Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State

Previous: Donte Jackson, CB, LSU

Gruden noted he loves several of the running back prospects available in this draft and he doesn’t even have to leave the state of California to nab a prime prospect. This former Aztec ball carrier mixes speed and power into a neat package as he’s able to take the handoff and apt to catch a pass. He opened eyes at the Senior Bowl.

Round 4: 110th overall

Shaquem Griffin, LB, University of Central Florida

Previous: Equanimeous St. Brown, WR, Notre Dame

The Raiders need playmakers on defense and the former Knight made more with one hand than many prospects do with both appendages. Blessed with scintillating speed (one that would’ve made former owner Al Davis draft him in the second round), Griffin has the moxie to be a force against the run and athleticism to be a nuisance in pass coverage.

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1 thought on “Pick ‘Em: Raiders Mock Draft 4.0”

  1. agl800@yahoo.com

    Without a doubt, the best Mock that I’ve seen! Nailed it. I love how you have Penny and Griffin folded in among who we know we need. All four are high motor. Jackson can lay the wood and pass defend. Griffin has a really high ceiling and is used to over performing. #10 pick (just lost his name, brain cramp) That first step! Great job, Mr. Aspuria

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