Las Vegas Raiders quick reaction NFL Draft grade: Lynn Bowden Jr.

BD Williams takes a closer look at Raiders selection Lynn Bowden Jr. in the 2020 NFL Draft, why it makes sense, and an early grade.

A name that has flown under the radar in all but the most die-hard draft circles, Lynn Bowden Jr. will be called a running back in Las Vegas, but there isn’t a whole lot he can’t do. Bowden was the recipient of the Paul Hornung Award that goes to the countries most versatile player due to his lining up at running back, wide receiver, and quarterback for the Wildcats.

After the Kentucky quarterback went down in 2019, Bowden started the final eight games of their season as the signal caller in the Kentucky offense, powering his squad to a 6-2 record. His leadership and playmaking ability helped him gain All-America honors as an all-purpose player along with being elected to the First team All-SEC for his 2019 campaign.

Starting 25 of 39 games, Bowden amassed 1500+ rushing yards, 1300+ receiving, and 1800+ return yards and 24 total touchdowns during his career. The Raiders have put an emphasis on getting better on the offensive side of the ball by bringing in weapons this offseason, and Bowden may be the icing on the cake.

Here is why the pick makes sense, and the draft grade.