Las Vegas Raiders fans are clamoring for a quarterback, for the most part, at least. However, the decision ultimately lies with general manager Tom Telesco (with input from head coach Antonio Pierce, surely). With that being said, going against the grain (or the fans’ opinions) is a possibility.
The defense largely contributed to the late-season success under Pierce’s guidance. After Pierce took the reins, Patrick Graham’s unit significantly elevated its performance to another level. Adding to that defensive front could be crucial in maintaining last season’s momentum, with Malcolm Koonce emerging as the “No. 2” to Maxx Crosby and Tyree Wilson showing promise. A monstrous defensive line that pulverizes the opponent’s O-line every week is a surefire way to get into the playoffs.
Imagine a scenario where a trade-up doesn’t materialize and the latter regarding the defensive line holds weight. Let’s see how such a storyline might unfold.
Raiders Mock Draft: Building A Monster In The Trenches
Round 1: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas
If there’s one player who saw his stock rise this week at the NFL Combine, it was Murphy. The defensive tackle made the most of his appearance and impressed mightily throughout. Just take into account his sheer athleticism and speed—he ran a 4.88 during his 40-yard dash, which translated into a 1.69 in his 10-yard split. None of those numbers are anything to scoff at, namely because he came in at nearly 300 pounds.
The fact is, the Raiders need a consistent and imposing pass-rushing force inside. Luckily, Murphy was tops for most of this year’s defensive tackle prospects—a 20 percent win rate equating to six sacks. Even more notable, Murphy notched eight and a half tackles for a loss last season alone. His Pro Football Focus grade in the pass-rush department sits at 91.5 for his final collegiate campaign. Favoriting the B-gap in college, Murphy, alongside Crosby, could translate into sheer chaos for opponents.
Texas DT Byron Murphy: “Playing next to a guy like Maxx Crosby would be CRAZY. I’ve never played with a guy like that, and he would make my job a lot easier.” #Raiders pic.twitter.com/zKb1aItpHA
— Levi Edwards (@theleviedwards) February 28, 2024
Murphy himself acknowledged as much during the combine. Maybe Telesco shouldn’t overthink this—you build on your team’s strength and run with it this upcoming season.
Round 2: Kingsley Suamataia, OL, BYU
If the team passes on a first-round quarterback prospect, the likely path in 2024 will feature Aidan O’Connell as the starter. This shouldn’t be too much of a surprise—all offseason long, both Pierce and Telesco have publicly displayed their support for No. 4. In fact, Pierce stated he’s the starter until otherwise stated. So, knowing that sticking to the trenches in the second round would be a smart call, enter Kingsley Suamataia.
Spotlighting one of the strongest pass-blocking grades (83.4) out of this year’s offensive line group, Suamataia, would be a remarkable addition. Much like Murphy, the Raiders would be adding another athlete—he himself described himself as such during the combine. More importantly, he could line up at either right or left tackle—that versatility would be invaluable.
At six-foot-five, 326 pounds, Suamataia is a beast, simple as that. His biggest strength coming out of college will be his crisp pass-blocking—his frame and length make him a nightmare for opponents. While his hand placement will need some polishing, you can’t coach physical traits, and Suamataia possesses gifts that, with the right coaching, will turn him into an instant starter if need be.
Raiders Offseason Plowing Ahead For Antonio Pierce, Tom Telesco, and Co.
