The Oakland Raiders made a nice move by selecting Johnathan Abram in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, and he has played, and acted beyond his years this summer.
The Oakland Raiders held three first round picks this past April, and they ended up actually holding onto them, and not trading them like many expected them to. In fact, with the three picks, they brought in three players who should be instant starters for the Silver and Black, and they have all looked very good this summer.
When it comes to rookies, fans of the team want to see a player who comes into the organization, and plays with pride for the team that selected them. Johnathan Abram has come into Oakland and become not only one of the more exciting rookies on the roster, but also one of the team’s leaders.
Abram is starting to show signs of elite talent and the organization is starting to notice. NFL.com released an article detailing what defensive coordinator Paul Guenther thinks of the young safety:
"“I just think he’s wise beyond his years. He doesn’t act like a rookie. When he’s out there, he sounds like a seven or eight-year vet. I think the players take notice of that. Just how he prepares, how he studies, how he communicates with the guys on and off the field. The thing is not too big for him. The players see that. He doesn’t act like your typical rookie.”"
The 27th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft draft was a steal, as he has shown a dedication to winning, preparing, and relentless pursuit, even going so far as nearly tackling the red-shirted Derek Carr in practice.
Not only is he picking up the position in a monumental way, but he’s also wearing Charles Woodson’s jersey number, who is revered by Raider Nation. Not only do they both have the same playing style, but they both have leadership attributes too.
To see a rookie come in and make this kind of impact is very exciting, and the Raiders know they have a good one in Abram. We have seen his personality on full display during HBO Hard Knocks, and for the Raiders, he is another strong addition to what could be a very good secondary in 2019.