We continue to take a stroll down memory lane with regards to the Las Vegas Raiders’ drafts of the previous decade.
Up to bat next here is the third round, the previous one produced some noteworthy players for the Raiders. In particular, there was the offensive and special teams’ star Jacoby Ford. Of course, the last fourth-round selection of the previous decade might turn out to be a great defensive end in Maxx Crosby.
All of this notwithstanding, let’s check out the Raiders’ haul from the previous third rounds of the player’s selection meeting.
Here are the Raiders’ third-round draft hauls
2019: None
2018: Brandon Parker, Arden Key
2017: Eddie Vanderdoes
2016: Shilique Calhoun
2015: Clive Walford
2014: Gabe Jackson
2013: Sio Moore
2012: Tony Bergstrom
2011: DeMarcus Van Dyke, Joe Barksdale
2010: Jared Veldheer
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Who stands out right away for the Silver and Black?
It seems like the Raiders have mainly drafted prospects in the third round that fit the ‘never was’ mold, as in they never quite lived up to their billing. Keep in mind this is the third round and not the sixth or seventh, these players should’ve become legitimate contributors. Unfortunately, players such as Vanderdoes, Key, and Walford only showed glimpses and in Vanderdoes’ case, nothing at all. He went on to start 13 games his rookie year but injuries derailed his career. Walford on the other hand, was a bright spot in his first two seasons. He accumulated six touchdowns, 61 receptions, and 688 receiving yards, only to see his career dwindle away in Miami and New York.
It’s plausible that looking at these selections you might come to the conclusion that Jackson is the best of the bunch. He was a part of the offensive line that helped turn around the Raiders’ fortunes in 2016. The unit dubbed as ‘Carr Insurance’ was a wrecking force that helped pave the way for Derek Carr and running back Latavius Murray during that stretch. While Jackson did receive a massive contract at one point, he was unable to live up to it and now finds himself in Seattle.
What are your thoughts, Raider Nation? Who do you think is the greatest third-round pick of the previous decade?
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*Top Photo: Tony Avelar/Associated Press