Ranking the Raiders 2017 draft class by jersey number
By Robert Ortiz
![May 5, 2017; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders linebacker Marquel Lee (55) during rookie minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports May 5, 2017; Alameda, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders linebacker Marquel Lee (55) during rookie minicamp at the Raiders practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/JustBlogBaby-cover-aa172b9787559cf1b5cf281aaf679667c155d71dd8ab62052902094af7b540fd.jpg)
2nd – Marquel Lee – No. 55
Despite the fact that the last Raiders inside linebacker to wear this number didn’t turn out so well *cough* Rolando *cough* Marquel Lee has primed himself for an excellent career in the NFL.
After wearing the #8 in college (also an elite number choice), Lee stepped into a number worn by some of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. From Chris Hanburger to Junior Seau to Derrick Brooks, the number 55 has a time-honored tradition of greatness.
And with current stars such as Vontaze Burfict and Terrel Suggs rocking the 55 with pride, Lee is potentially primed for an elite career. And it has to be added that dude looks absolutely menacing in 55 already.
1st – Elijah Hood – No. 34
I gotta admit, Hood DOES look good in Silver and Black. pic.twitter.com/tiOxFbnavj
— Coach Robert Ortiz (@CoachOrtizOL) May 25, 2017
With all-time legends such as Walter Payton, Earl Campbell, and Thurman Thomas having graced NFL fields while wearing the number 34, Elijah Hood has set himself up for an extremely productive career in the Silver and Black.
Add in Raider legend Bo Jackson to the list and the number takes on near mythical status in the hearts and minds of Raider Nation. With Hood having the ability to sit and learn behind his idol in Marshawn Lynch, and the glaring need for a power back once Marshawn’s time in Oakland is up, Hood is primed for a fantastic career in the league.
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By slimming down to 220 pounds, Hood has added some speed to his game and by picking an elite number has assured himself of the potential for a Hall of Fame career. Enjoy it Raider Nation, this is one very promising draft class.