Following a free agency that included big-name additions and the loss of fan favorites, the Raiders are faced with the always important NFL Draft. As is usually the case, most of the Raiders’ holes lie on defense. While offensive tackle will be addressed, expect most of the attention to be on the other side of the ball.
Note: This mock was made using The Draft Network’s Mock Draft Simulator. It is a reflection of the players Jason would select, not a prediction of who the Raiders would take.Â
Who are the Raiders taking in this mock draft?
Round 1, Pick 17: Safety Trevon Moehrig TCU
Even with the return of Karl Joseph, the Raiders badly need another safety. While Johnathan Abram is a big name and former first-rounder, he does not give them what they need in coverage. Enter Trevon Moehrig, a true center fielder and ball-hawking free safety. The Raiders’ defense badly needs a player with his ability.
Round 2 Pick 48: Offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood, Alabama
By going safety in round one, the Raiders are forced to select a tackle with their next selection. While the goal was Liam Eichenberg here, Alex Leatherwood is a good consolation prize. A player with shorter arms, Leatherwood will need to have great technique as a pass protector. He already excels as a run blocker and one of the most consistent offensive tackle prospects in the draft.
Round 3, Pick 79: EDGE defender Quincy Roche, Miami (FL)
An undersized pass rusher, Quincy Roche brings tremendous technical ability. A very smart player who will excel in the NFL based on his smarts and effort. Gus Bradley’s defense needs more pass rushers and the Miami standout fits the bill.
Round 3, Pick 80: Safety Hamsah Nasirildeen, Florida State
A true chess piece player, Hamsah Nasirildeen brings versatility that all coaches love. While he may only be a sub-package player initially, he gives the defense a lot of flexibility. Played safety, slot corner, and linebacker while at FSU.
Round 4, Pick 121: Cornerback Israel Mukuamu, South Carolina
A long cornerback prospect who compares favorably to a Gus Bradley disciple in Brandon Browner. Both players are huge and have a tendency to get grabby due to their lack of athleticism. Bradley will have to coach him up, but this is a low-key good selection.
Round 5, Pick 162: WR/RB Demetric Felton, UCLA
A running back at UCLA, Demetric Felton dominated the Senior Bowl as a slot wide receiver. Another pick aimed at adding versatility, he can also return kicks at a high level. A selection that recalls the memory of Lynn Bowden Jr., this one comes with a less hefty price tag.
Round 5, Pick 167: Cornerback Thomas Graham Jr., Oregon
A 2020 opt-out, Graham is a corner with incredible ball skills. With eight interceptions in threes seasons, the Raiders could use his playmaking prowess. While he will have to make his money on special teams at first, there are tools here.
Round 6, Pick 200: Wide receiver Cornell Powell, Clemson
The annual Clemson selection for the Raiders is a steal at this spot. A perfect replacement for Nelson Agholor, Powell could easily become a favorite of Derek Carr. Expect him to be selected much higher than this in the real draft.
Jon Gruden and Mike Mayock badly need speed, versatility, and playmaking on defense and they get it here. Along with some more speed on offense, the Raiders get a major influx of talent while staying true to themselves.
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TOP PHOTO: AJ Mast/Associated PressÂ
