The Oakland Raiders must do this for a successful NFL Draft

This is arguably the most important NFL Draft in the history of the Oakland Raiders, and here is how they can make sure not to mess it up.

We’ve reached the point in the offseason where there is an over-saturation in mock drafts. Some of them just sound outright silly. Thankfully the NFL draft is less than two weeks away, so the real thing will finally put this episode to rest.

This will be Jon Gruden’s second go around in the draft since returning to the Oakland Raiders. Last year’s draft was a bit unorthodox from the Raiders standpoint. Both Gruden and former general manager Reggie McKenzie had their own draft boards.

The draft itself was not conducted as a complete team, thus foreshadowed the 2018 regular season. Gruden must have a successful draft in the coming weeks and not replicate the division from last year.

So what is the key to having a successful draft for Gruden?

The key is to heed Mike Mayock’s advice.

Where Reggie McKenzie was simply an outside voice. Gruden actually sees Mayock as someone who is credible and valid. Mayock understands value and the draft like the back of his hand. In his pre-draft press conference with the media Thursday, Mayock gave his take on need versus best player available.

His approach to the draft is the most logical. Mayock points out that you have to have common sense, which is what the Raiders needed in last years draft. It’s no secret that the team reached for offensive tackle Kolton Miller.

It had everyone questioning heavily what for, since Derwin James was sitting there. I know I know, “does he play offensive tackle?”. That’s great and all, but that tired excuse doesn’t validate the absurd reach for Miller. Jon Gruden and the Raiders must not do that again.

It would be a waste if any one of their first round picks were used based on strictly need and letting a clear cut talent fall.

For all we know, how Gruden views the teams needs could be completely off base with what most people think. What if he doesn’t see pass rush as his top priority? Picking at No. 4 in the draft seems like it’s impossible to mess up, but I wouldn’t rule anything out with Gruden holding all the power.

Gruden, the coach, is exceptional. But Gruden, the manager, is irrational.

This is what Mike Mayock is for, since he doesn’t really have any power, as he eluded to the building being coach driven. He acknowledges that drafting off need is natural for coaches, but it’s his job to convince Gruden out of poor selections and get the most value based deals. It’s why the Raiders acquired Antonio Brown for some quarters underneath the couch cushion.

I was not a believer in what Mayock could bring to the table for the Raiders. In fact, I believed he was just the fall guy, but as time passes he’s looking more and more like the perfect contrast of personality for Gruden. If there’s any time to utilize Mayock, it’s the draft. It’s not like he’s been around it for 25-plus years or anything (sarcasm).

So for the Raiders and Gruden’s sake to have a successful draft, heeding and acting on Mike Mayock’s advice is the ideal scenario.