Raiders 2018 NFL Draft: 5 DTs to target after the first round

One of the smartest players in  this draft class, Harrison Phillips accomplished just as much on the field, as he did in the classroom during his time at Stanford. Phillips graduated from Stanford with a double major in technology of science and sociology, while also adding a minor in education.

However, his prowess on the football field will translate well to the next level, where he could be a dominant figure. A national champion wrestler during his time at Millard West (NE) High School, Phillips is one of the best run stoppers in this draft class, and the Raiders certainly need that.

A projected second rounder, Phillips ran a 5.21 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine, while finishing No. 1 in the entire draft class by putting up 225 pounds on the bench press 42 times. It was quite a performance for Phillips, who has really come on since tearing his ACL back in 2015.

Last season, Phillips racked up over 100 tackles from his defensive tackle position, which is an incredible number for someone who plays on the inside. At 6-foot-3, 295 pounds, he certainly has the size to be a dominant force on the inside for the Raiders, and he would have to be the focus of double teams up front.

There are some scouts who have put a first round grade on Phillips, but he should fall into Day two. If he is available when the Raiders pick at No. 41, they will give him a long look, but the draft may shape up where he ends up going to the Silver and Black in the third.