With Karl Joseph on an expiring contract — not knowing what his future holds with the team, safety is a position the Raiders may look towards. Oakland did select Jonathan Abram in last year’s draft on day one, so it would be shocking if they went safety early on this year. I’d assume a mid round pick to help bolster the secondary is a realistic option for Paul Guenther’s defense as they head to Las Vegas.
Alohi Gilman plays a physical brand of football that should catch the eye of Gruden during the draft process. Gruden always loves players that aren’t afraid to do the dirty work, and that’s Gilman. In his college career he’s been more of a box safety, playing the run and blitzing quite nicely, but covering tight ends have caused him havoc.
Coming off a 90-plus tackling season last year at Navy where he was one of their premier run stuffers, and his play near the line of scrimmage has remained superior during his first season at Notre Dame. In nine games with the Fighting Irish, Gilman has recorded 52 total tackles, two TFL’s, one interception, one PBU, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
Pros:
- Physical
- Solid against the run
- Quality tackler
Cons:
- Range
- Short area quickness
- Lacks anticipation