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Grading The Oakland Raiders 2017 Draft

By Nick Hjeltness

Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Gareon Conley (8) during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Ohio State won 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Gareon Conley (8) during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Ohio State won 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Overall Grade

Grade: B+

All in all, this was a very good draft for Reggie McKenzie and the Raiders. The first three picks of this draft may end up being the second best trio he’s hauled via the draft, save for the 2014 picks of Khalil Mack, Derek Carr and Gabe Jackson.

Gareon Conley and Obi Melifonwu have star potential, and could be long-term foundational pieces on defense. They’ll immediately patch some of the woes the secondary had in 2016.

Vanderdoes is the perfect type of player to draft in the third round. He’s not a project like you look for in later rounds, and he’s not quite the polished day one impact player either. But he is a high upside pick with plus athleticism and an array of tools and ability at his disposal. Jethro Franklin will be able to work wonders with him, as will an NFL strength and conditioning program.

Sharpe and Ware were picks to hopefully address the need at tackle, either in the short-term on the right side or the long-term on the left side.

Marquel Lee could end up the starting inside linebacker, which if he did, he would greatly outplay his draft slot. Hood is a worthy late-round flier as Marshawn Lynch insurance, and Luani can contribute on special teams while also serving as special teams depth.

Must Read: JBB Mailbag: Post-Draft Edition

McKenzie focused on the defense, did a great job patching most of the team’s needs without reaching and passing over too many more talented options.

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