Resetting the Las Vegas Raiders biggest needs heading into Day 2 of draft
By Evan Groat
Defensive Line
With the exception of Derrick Brown and Javon Kinlaw, the defensive line position went untouched in round one. Even with the addition of Maliek Collins via free agency, the Raiders could add another player in the middle of the defense.
Luckily for the Raiders there are several intriguing options available.
Marlon Davidson, Auburn
Davidson was projected as a possible late first rounder, yet he sees himself fall to day two. It would likely take a trade up to land a player of his potential, but the Raiders have the ammo to get it done.
Davidson played primarily as an end in Auburn’s base defense but occasionally moved inside. He is a menace up front that could fill multiple areas of need for the Raiders both at tackle and depth at edge rusher.
Ross Blacklock , TCU
Much like Davidson, Blacklock heard his named tossed around in the late first round discussion. Blacklock has all the tools size, strength, and athleticism. He is also nimble (4.90 in the forty) for a man tipping the scales at 290 pounds.
The knock on Blacklock is despite the athleticism, he doesn’t get home enough. He could use some work with his pass rush technique, and a veteran defensive line coach like Rod Marinelli could be the one to unlock his talent.
Neville Gallimore, Oklahoma
Staying on the trend of athletic big men, Oklahoma’s Neville Gallimore fits that mold. At 6-foot-2 inches, 304 pounds, Gallimore earned the nickname the “Canadian Bulldozer” both from his roots in Ottawa, Ontario and his rugged style of play.
Gallimore plays with heavy, violent hands, and a motor that runs red hot. He is being projected as a round two or three draft pick, and if the Raiders can get their hands on him, he would be the final piece of the puzzle up front on defense.
James Lynch, Baylor
One of my personal favorites is James Lynch. Lynch is solidly built at 6-foot-3 inches, 289 pounds and has the flexibility to play multiple spots along the defensive front. The name of the game for Lynch is power. He looks to beat offensive lineman with his array of power moves including the bull rush.
Lynch had a highly productive junior season at Baylor recording 13.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss. I expect him to be available when the Raiders select in round three.