2018 NFL Mock Draft: Oakland Raiders 7-round mock 1.0

It is no big secret that the Raiders need help on the defensive line, especially when it comes to the middle of it. New defensive coordinator needs good defensive tackles to make his defense work, so expect the Raiders to target one with either their first, or second round pick.

Let us assume the Raiders go with a linebacker in round one, then that would mean they should go defensive tackle in round two. One name that should be available early in round two is Taven Bryan, who could wind up being the best player at his position in this draft class when all is said and done.

Bryan put on an absolute clinic at the NFL Scouting Combine, putting up 225 pounds on the bench press 40 times. Incredibly, he also posted a 40-yard dash time under 5.00, which was the 14th best among defensive tackles.

While he is still kind of a project, Bryan has the phsyical skills you look for in a defensive lineman. He has drawn comparison to players like J.J. Watt and Derek Wolfe, both of whom have carved out some fantastic NFL careers so far.

At 6-foot-4, and 291 pounds, Bryan has the size and strength needed to be a force in the middle of the Raiders defense. Oakland needs pressure on the inside to take the heat of Khalil Mack, who would be even more dominant if the Raiders ever got any push up front.