Oakland Raiders NFL Draft Preview: Slot Receiver

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Nov 7, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) runs after a catch while being pursued by Iowa State defensive back Qujuan Floyd (7) during the fourth quarter at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Breaking down four slot receiver options for the Oakland Raiders at the 2016 NFL Draft.

After investing their first round selection in the 2015 NFL draft in former Alabama receiver Amari Cooper, the Oakland Raiders had put together a strong set of wide receivers at the top of the depth chart in Cooper and Michael Crabtree, but the depth behind Oakland’s top two receivers has struggled to remain consistent.

Seth Roberts, a former undrafted free agent out of West Alabama, flashed at times as Oakland’s primary slot receiver, but he did struggle with drops at times (not as much as Cooper) and has yet to perfect his route-running technique. Without elite quickness or top-speed, Roberts will fail to create separation in small windows and isn’t a threat to get behind defenses on vertical routes. On the other hand, Roberts has earned his way onto the field due to his ability to make an impact in the run game.

According to ProFootballFocus.com, Roberts graded out as the 102 ranked receiver among the 121 eligible in 2015 despite his top 10 run blocking grade (81.8).

Behind Roberts, both Andre Holmes and Andre Debose have yet to wow anyone with their skills in the regular season, as Holmes has struggled in a limited role over the years and Debose hasn’t taken the field since being brought in as a seventh-round pick in 2015.

With that being said, Oakland could look for Roberts to continue to grow as their No. 3 wide receiver and have second-year tight end Clive Walford take on an increased role in 2016, but their lack of depth is still a concern. In 2015, the Raiders were extremely fortunate in the fact that all three of their top receivers appeared in all 16 games, but if their luck doesn’t continue this following year, Oakland will struggle to make things work in the passing game.

Look for Oakland to bring in one or more receivers in the 2016 NFL draft. Here are four Day 2/Day 3 options that they could bring in to compete with Roberts for the No. 3 spot on the depth chart.

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