This offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders have invested heavily to upgrade the defensive line. To strenghten the unit even more, should the Raiders draft a defensive tackle in the first round?
General Manager Mike Mayock has made fans happy for making the pass rush a priority in free agency. Also, Rod Marinelli was brought in to oversee this revamped unit and the Raiders might not be done just yet adding players.
Raiders Blog: Word Around The League…
Matt Miller of Bleacher Report recently alluded to the Silver and Black possibly upgrading at defensive tackle.
“…one source said, but the expectation around the league is wide receiver early and middle-of-the-field defender with their second Round 1 pick. That would be a defensive tackle, as the team wants to upgrade there.”
Interesting to say the least, this means the team might’ve given up on P.J. Hall and likewise aren’t too high on Johnathan Hankins. Or else, why they use a first round pick on the position?
Related: Raiders slowly becoming Cowboys 2.0
If an upgrade is indeed what the Raiders have in mind, there will definitely be options in the draft. If Javon Kinlaw is there at 19, he could be a name to consider. At 6-foot-5 and 324 pounds he’s got the tools to be an instant starter. Also, let’s not forget Ross Blacklock from TCU. Finally, you have to believe that Las Vegas will probably bite if Derrick Brown from Auburn falls, assuming that this upgrade is a legitimate plan.
You May Also Like From This Raiders Blog: Raiders draft guide post free agency edition