2020 NFL mock roundup: Raiders capitalize on multiple firsts

DraftWire – Luke Easterling

Isaiah Simmons, Clemson LB

Every Raiders fan knows the state of the linebacker position, and Luke Easterling answers those prayers by having Isaiah Simmons fall to 14.

It’ll be interesting to see where exactly Simmons falls because there are mocks that have him in the top 10 and others that have him around this range. The later would be incredible for Oakland as Simmons provides so much versatility in the middle of a defense with linebacker size and safety athleticism.

Simmons could also finally end the Raiders woes against opposing tight ends.

Pick 17. Henry Ruggs III, Alabama WR

It seems Easterling and Hanson are sharing notes as both have the Raiders going after the Alabama speedster. We’ve already talked about Ruggs III’s ability to take the top of the defense, but it is also important to note he is not just a speed guy.

He has sure hands and can win in a contested-catch situation, and with the improved route-running this year, he can develop into a number one receiver.

It seems that the combination of Mayock and Gruden love both Alabama and Clemson players, so they cross both schools off the list in the first round of this mock. Both players would come to Las Vegas with that winning pedigree, which has helped turn this franchise around in 2019.