Hey, Raiders fans, we’re killing it with our mock drafts this offseason. So, you might as well check them out right here.
Klint Kubiak is coming in as the new head coach for the Las Vegas Raiders and accompanying him is his playbook and philosophy. In order to fully implement it, he’ll need a rebuilt offensive line which can be attained via the NFL draft. No need to back up a Brinks truck for Tyler Linderbaum. Instead, why not you use your cap flexibility on quality defensive starters that fit Rob Leonard’s 3-4 scheme.
Luckily for Kubiak and general manager John Spytek, there are a handful of prospects that can help establish an identity for the trenches. Armchair GMs such as myself know what the Raiders need, and right now, they need an offensive line. Even actual former NFL general managers use mock draft simulators, so yes, anyone can do it.
You’re already here, so might as well see what plan we’ve laid out.
Raiders 3-Round Mock Draft: Getting Fernando Mendoza protection…
Round 1, No. 1: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
The Raiders have been applying Dollar Tree-level Band-Aids at quarterback for so long that some people don’t know a sure thing when it hits them. We get it, there’s no Joe Burrow in this quarterback class but that doesn’t mean Kubiak and Spytek won’t walk away with a proven winner and more than that, a complete QB prospect that gives you the best chance at turning things around. If you don’t think Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is exactly that, well, there’s nothing I can do for you.
Looking at his tape, you see the intangibles that’ll translate at the next level. Not only does he have sufficient arm strength, good size and frame, but he also has the athletic ability required to succeed in the NFL ranks. He won’t light it up in a vertical offense the way that Al Davis would’ve liked, but he’ll succeed with Kubiak. Mendoza can diagnose everything in front of him with rapid speed; it’s that cognitive function makes the difference between being mediocre and good. Honestly, Mendoza just needs to be “good.” The Raiders haven’t had that in at least five years, arguably.
While he won’t have any problems scrambling or using his feet to extend plays if not for a couple seconds, Kubiak will want max protection around him. You can do that by building an offensive line that caters to that desire. You already have some pieces in place, the following would be a way to compliment that.
Round 2, No. 36: Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Alright, now let’s get to the real reason you’re still reading this.
As a starting tackle since being a freshman at Clemson, Blake Miller has consistently shown why he belongs in the conversation. He’s got everything that Kubiak and his supporting staff will require; the versatility, being agile for such a big dude (six-foot-six), and of course, notable hands, and technique. While he will benefit from the strength and conditioning program out in Henderson, Miller comes in with all of the tools, just needs that extra refinement.
As originally stated, this draft will be about surrounding Mendoza with as much protection as possible. Miller gives you exactly that, actually. His biggest strength is in the pass-protection department and while it’s not perfect, it makes for a lot of potential in the NFL game.
In terms of the aforementioned versatility, Miller started at both ends of the offensive line while at Clemson. You can prepare him to eventually take Kolton Miller’s place or have him compete at the right tackle spot in camp. It’s a win-win for Kubiak and Co.
Round 3, No. 67: Sam Hecht, C, Kansas State
Lots of Raider fans want Spytek to drop serious money in free agency towards Linderbaum. The thing is, the defense is starving for quality, starting-level talent. As it stands, Mendoza will be the priority, it all starts and ends with the quarterback. However, in order to placate Maxx Crosby’s delicate ego, you go get him so help in the form of free agents that fit exactly what it is their new defensive coordinator is trying to do. In the meantime, you can move Jackson Power-Johnson to the guard slot and draft Kansas State’s Sam Hecht to grow with Mendoza as his center.
As a walk-on, Hecht has had to work for everything he’s got. With excellent coaching, he’s become an intriguing prospect that could be had in the third round this year. Thanks to that grit, Hecht possesses some of the best technique of any center available. On top of that, he’s got some underrated athleticism that’ll benefit Kubiak’s run game. Much like Miller, the foundation is there but he’ll need to beef up more once he’s in the NFL.
It’s about creating a long-term vision around Mendoza and to do that, you need to make sure the O-line is properly addressed. Just like the quarterback position, you can’t afford mirages that appear as quick fixes. You build from the inside out, but hey, what do I know.
*Top Photo: Ramble Illustration/Getty Images