NFL Draft: Ranking the Oakland Raiders First Round options
Tier 1 – Cream of the crop
This group of players are widely considered likely top-ten selections, so it doesn’t seem likely that any of them will be available at #14.
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State
This isn’t a need pick, because Latavius Murray is a quality back. But he does leave something to be desired. He only topped 100 yards twice last season and a lot of his production was opportunity based.
Zeke is special. He’s got size, speed, power, smarts, pass-catching ability, and he can block. It’s a longshot he’s available for Oakland at pick #14, but if he is, they should have the pick at the podium within seconds.
Vernon Hargreaves, CB, Florida
Even though Sean Smith signed in free agency, the Raiders will still likely look to address the cornerback position early. Amerson had a very good season and hopefully that will continue, and Carrie is a capable slot corner but he may continue to see time at safety.
Either way, Hargreaves has the talent to be a top cornerback in the NFL. He’s awesome in man coverage, he has ball skills, and he’s a fantastic athlete.
Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
The recent updates on Mario Edwards Jr. are positive, but even if he is able to play at 100% in 2016, there is still room on the defensive line for a player like Rankins.
Rankins is a proficient pass rusher with great technique and plus athleticism. He had a highly productive collegiate career and dominated 1-on-1 drills during Senior Bowl week. He’d be a perfect complement to big Dan Williams on the interior of the defensive line.
Shaq Lawson, DE, Clemson
Lawson is an athletic edge rusher with a deadly spin move. He’s big, strong, uses his hands effectively, and is a capable run defender. Also, he can play defensive end in a 4-3 or OLB in a 3-4, so his versatility is a plus.
Even though Bruce Irvin was signed and Aldon Smith is coming back, you can never have too many pass rushers. Imagine Shaq Lawson on one end, Khalil Mack on the other, big Dan and Mario in the middle, with Irvin and Aldon coming off the edge. I rest my case.
Next: Raiders First Round Options: Tier 2