Raiders Draft Grades
May I just say I’m glad that’s over how about you? I mean after months of trepidation the draft is finally over! Now that being stated here are my draft grades, as always I will analyze every move the Raiders made and tell you which ones are exciting and which ones aren’t.
Nov 29, 2013; Buffalo, NY, USA; Buffalo Bulls linebacker Khalil Mack (46) makes a tackle on Bowling Green Falcons running back William Houston (32) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bowling Green beat Buffalo 24 to 7. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Khalil Mack: The Raiders drafted Mack and that was no surprise, as Mack was a lock to be a top 5 pick. I must say I’m a bit relieved to see that the Raiders did not reach for a guy this year. After last year’s draft where we took D.J. Hayden in what many stated was a reach I am glad to see that McKenzie took the best player available regardless of position. While an offensive player like Sammy Watkins or Mike Evans would have been warmly welcomed, Mack is a surefire talent with the potential to be an impact player from day one. Further as demonstrated by the Super bowl defense wins championships. So, I am glad to see that the Raiders are bringing a rare defensive talent like Mack to rebuild. After the loss of Houston this offseason the Raiders needed a defensive talent and make no mistake Mack is that guy.
Here’s why: Mack at 6’3 and 251 pounds has the size to be a great linebacker actually he compares well to Von Miller, and Aldon Smith. While Mack is not as big as Jadeveon Clowney, or Anthony Barr he did as good as both of them in the combine.
For example Mack had a 40 yd. dash time of 4.65, whereas Barr timed in at 4.66, and Clowney had a blazing 4.53 40 yd. dash.
So he’s second best out of the 3 elite talents what’s the big deal?
Let’s view how well they did in the bench press.
Mack had an astounding 23 reps, whereas Barr had a mere 15, and Clowney despite being bigger only managed 21.
This means that Mack while being the second fastest prospect is also the strongest out of the 3 elite talents. Mack is also the only one of these 3 elite talents that did not come with question marks, for example all season we heard about how Clowney has character issues dealing with his work ethic, regardless of whether or not they were true this was a knock on Clowney. Now with Barr he has limited experience as a defensive player and might not develop, so there is a chance that he does not make the impact expected. Mack on the other hand did not have any question marks thus Mack was the best possible pick.
Grade: A