Pro Football Focus compiled a list of the highest graded players, rookies, and surprises at every position in the NFL and many of our beloved Raiders made the cut
In year one of the second Jon Gruden era in Oakland, the goal seemed to be to trim the fat on the roster and get rid of any players that the coaching staff felt were either not fully bought in or just not good enough. In some cases, the decisions were purely financial and lead to the departure of some popular Raiders who we would name if we wanted to open up some old wounds.
Year two under Gruden and his new GM Mike Mayock was more about replenishing the barren cupboard that was the Raiders roster at the end of the 2018 season. The team went about this through some big free agent and trade acquisitions in Tyrell Williams and Antonio Brown, but also used their significant draft capital to pick up some studs as well.
Many of these acquisitions made instant impacts for the Raiders and in addition to passing the eye test with flying colors, also got excellent grades from the folks at Pro Football Focus (PFF). Though no Raiders were the highest graded players at their position, let’s take a look at those selected by PFF as either the highest graded rookie or the biggest surprise at their position.