Everyone in Raider Nation anxiously awaits to see what the Las Vegas Raiders will do in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. But as true observers know, the draft will be won in the later rounds, in particular, the third.
“General manager Mike Mayock knows what he’s doing” is probably an understatement at this point. Last year’s draft class was one of the best the Raiders have had in at least twenty years. The team has both foundational and quality players at several positions and if you add this year’s free agency loot, he seems like a genius right now.
Related: Latest Prediction for Raiders’ First Round Picks
With that being said, it’s extremely important Mayock nails the third round this year. The reason? The Raiders have three picks and barring any trades, several key holes the team has could be filled. NFL.com’s Chad Reuter has the Silver and Black selecting some intriguing prospects that could be contributors right out of the gate with the right coaching.
The Raiders picks are as follows:
No. 80 Cam Akers, RB
No. 81 Troy Pride, CB
No. Larrell Murchison, DT
Raiders Blog: And Then There Was Three
Assuming the Raiders take at least one wide receiver in and one defensive player like a Kenneth Murray in the first round, combined with three impact players in the third round, you can potentially have a gold mine. A side note, some in Raider Nation believe that quarterback Jalen Hurts will be available in the third round. However, Reuter has the team passing on him. Depending on who you talk to, that might not be smart if you think Derek Carr or Marcus Mariota aren’t the long term answers at quarterback.
Controversial talk aside, these three prospects would address the same number of needs at once. Akers would provide a quality backup to Josh Jacobs and would be joined by Jalen Richard to generate a formidable running back stable. Pride, for his part, would join a secondary that still needs help even after the Eli Apple signing. Murchison, under the guidance of defensive coach Rod Marinelli, could definitely see some action as a rookie and still work on his craft working behind that talented defensive line.
This could shape up to be an even better draft than last year’s if Mayock plays his cards rights. What do you think Raider Nation? How do you feel about those three potential picks? Let us know in the comments!
You May Also Like: Raiders Becoming Cowboys 2.0 This Off Season