Oakland Raiders 2018 NFL Draft: 5 front-seven players to take in first round
By John Buhler
The one front-seven prospect most tied to the Raiders at this stage of the draft process is Georgia Bulldogs inside linebacker Roquan Smith. Smith leaves Athens after three years, but is ready for some NFL action. He has garnered great praise as a promising inside linebacker prospect that could thrive in this era of NFL defenses.
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While a bit undersized for an inside linebacker at 6-foot-1, 225 pounds, Smith has the awareness and football instincts to stop the run and pass at the next level. He is seen as the best inside linebacking prospect in the draft, projected to go right around where the Raiders are picking in the top-10.
Smith had 252 career tackles (146 solo, 106 assists), 20.5 for a loss of yardage, 6.5 quarterback sacks, three forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and three pass breakups. He could have returned to school for another year, but he has to go pro as a certain top-15 pick that plays inside linebacker.
Next: Oakland Raiders: Roquan Smith, 2018 NFL Draft Profile
Smith’s selection by the Raiders really all depends on if free agent NaVorro Bowman re-ups with the team this offseason. If Bowman returns, Oakland may look elsewhere at No. 9 or 10. Then again, wouldn’t Bowman be an ideal mentor for Smith at inside linebacker? Regardless, if Oakland does go front-seven inside the top-10, the need, fit and player that is Smith would be a wise selection for the Raiders.