NFL mock draft season is in high gear now, especially for those teams that have been eliminated from playoff contention. Among those teams are the Las Vegas Raiders. A few media outlets have the Silver and Black going after a prized offensive tackle prospect.
Look, going offensive line in the top 10 is far from a “sexy” pick. However, the Raiders don’t need that right now. What they lack is talent at several critical positions, offensive tackle included. While the Raiders’ coaching staff proved to be more than capable of making the most of their O-line, the lack of talent is egregious. Yes, there are some interesting parts moving forward. Most notably, there are two promising linemen: Thayer Munford and Dylan Parham. Unfortunately, more is needed. That’s where Paris Johnson from “The Ohio State University” comes in.
NFL Draft Experts Have Johnson Slated As Raiders’ Pick In Recent Mock Drafts
Kyle Crabbs of The Draft Network has Johnson picked at No. 7 for the Raiders. He highlighted the fact that the Raiders need to beef up their trenches regardless of the signal-caller.
“I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the Raiders’ roster has a lot bigger problems than Carr. That is why I’m electing to give them a position-diverse talent in Paris Johnson Jr. here with their first pick in this NFL mock draft. I would expect the Raiders will have dreams and visions of Tom Brady in their heads, but until we get better talent in the trenches on both sides of the ball, all the familiarity in the world with McDaniels’ system will only take you so far.”
Is Paris Johnson a fit with the Raiders?
Then you also have the 33rd Team, which released their latest updated mock draft. In it, they too mirror the same selection for the Silver and Black.
“With significant length and outstanding athletic ability, Johnson would be a nice fit in the Raiders’ offense and would give them a building block for the future.”
First off, Johnson was a recognized leader with the Buckeyes. That’s something you want in your franchise offensive tackle: attitude, leadership, and a mean competitive streak. Johnson checks off many of the physical attributes that you want in this level of prospect. He stands six feet six inches tall and weighs more than 300 pounds. Also, his notable power and relentlessness are apparent in run-blocking, which the Raiders can use. In fact, Pro Football Focus grades him 80.9 in that department. It’s early right now, but Johnson to the Raiders makes sense.
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*Top Photo: David Petkiewicz/Cleveland.com
