The Las Vegas Raiders need to address their defense this offseason but does that mean they should pass up on an offensive playmaker?
The hiring of defensive coordinator Gus Bradley is causing some people to overlook players on the Raiders roster. There are several promising contributors still in-house that are going to reap the benefits of Bradley’s system. After all, the biggest issue with the Silver and Black has been the coaching and scheme of Paul Guenther. This doesn’t mean the team shouldn’t invest resources in their defense, but what if the Raiders drafted an offensive playmaker to take Jon Gruden’s offense to another level. We’re talking about Alabama running back Najee Harris of course.
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Harris or Owusu-Koramoah? That could be a tough choice for the Raiders
Before you scoff at this scenario, take a look at a recent mock by NFL Media’s Bucky Brooks. He has the Raiders drafting Notre Dame linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah with the 17th selection. Right after him, the Miami Dolphins select Harris with the 18th pick. So, what if the Raiders opted to select Harris instead? Brooks says Harris is a Matt Forte-like playmaker, which turns the Raiders offense into something truly special. If Las Vegas resigns Nicholas Morrow, a linebacker corps featuring him, Nick Kwiatkoski, and Cory Littleton would be solid.
Harris’ career at Alabama showed he can be a true dual-threat in the NFL. Last season alone, the running back totaled 1,466 rushing yards and 425 receiving, for a total of 1,891 scrimmage yards. You can also tack on 26 rushing touchdowns and four touchdowns via air. A backfield made up of Harris, Josh Jacobs, and Alec Ingold would give defensive coordinators nightmares. You throw in what Henry Ruggs III will do by stretching defenses and this could truly be a juggernaut.
Likewise, Owusu-Koramoah is a dynamic defender with speed and athleticism but the Raiders’ biggest need is the interior. This won’t be a popular scenario but the Silver and Black could pick up an excellent interior lineman after the first round, such as Marlon Tuipulotu or Daviyon Nixon. You could then pick up a premier defensive lineman such as Leonard Williams and you would have a much more imposing front four.
Thoughts, Raider Nation? Who would you select if you were on the clock, Harris or Owusu-Koramoah?
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*Top Photo: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
