The NFL Scouting Combine is over, and the draft is quickly approaching. Top 30 visits can be difficult to track, but reports have surfaced that Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston is scheduled to meet with the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. Only 29 other prospects will receive that opportunity with the Silver and Black.
The Raiders still have several holes to address across the roster. Free safety, defensive tackle, and the offensive line remain areas of need. With the Maxx Crosby trade canceled, Las Vegas is now focused on the draft, particularly the early rounds.
Fernando Mendoza appears to be the clear favorite to go No. 1 overall, but the Raiders’ plan at No. 36 remains far less certain.
Denzel Boston is a true X wide receiver the Raiders need…
Despite being the tallest wide receiver on the Raiders’ roster, Donte Thornton Jr. is not a true X receiver. Although he stands 6 foot 5, the former Tennessee standout has struggled to high-point the football and has dealt with drops. That is why Boston would fill a clear need in Las Vegas.
The former Washington receiver is a touchdown threat who does his best work in the red zone. His ability to box out defenders on slants and track the ball on fade routes helps set him apart. Boston also offers solid route-running ability, which adds to his appeal as a potential target.
There is still potential for growth in his game. His explosiveness could be enhanced, and his release off the line remains an area that needs improvement. He doesn’t consistently generate significant separation, which might affect his draft position, potentially pushing him into the second round. Nevertheless, his impressive size at 6-foot-4 is an asset that cannot be overlooked.
Raiders Mock Draft: GM John Spytek swings pair of Day 2 trades
What other team could draft the Washington wide receiver?
Many of the NFL teams picking near the end of the first round need pass-catching help, which makes it difficult to project where Denzel Boston could land. Still, a few franchises stand out as logical fits, especially those lacking size at wide receiver.
The Chicago Bears are one team to watch. After trading D.J. Moore, Chicago could look to add another target to its receiving corps.
The Cleveland Browns also make sense as a potential landing spot. Their wide receiver corps lacks proven difference-makers, and the team could look to add more talent around Shedeur Sanders.
If the Washington native is still available, the Raiders could also enter the conversation. Should Las Vegas target a wide receiver in the second round?
*Top Photo: Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images