#19: Patrick Queen – L.B., LSU
The issues at linebacker are similar to the issues at wide receiver for the Raiders, so it would be ideal to get premiere talent to fill those spots. The only problem is the Raiders don’t have a pick after this until #80. And with a weaker overall linebacker class, I had to decide whether to reach a bit on a high potential prospect or hope a capable player is available later, and I chose the former.
Patrick Queen isn’t a name that was consistently mentioned in the first round during the college season, but a strong finish to the year has people aware.
Unlike Lamb, you don’t have to worry about speed when it comes to Queen, as that is the evident strength of his game. He is a sideline to sideline player with great physicality and excellent instincts.
And if drafted, he would immediately become the best coverage linebacker on the team.
Queen could play Mike or Will depending on what the Raiders need, but regardless of which position he plays, the Raiders would be getting a dynamic three-down player.