2021 Senior Bowl stars who could help the Las Vegas Raiders immediately
By Brad Weiss
Justin Hilliard could help the Raiders linebacker group immediately
Linebacker is another area where the Raiders struggled last season, after spending money at the position in free agency to bring in Cory Littleton and Nick Kwiatkoski. In 2021, there needs to be more talent, and more depth and a player like Ohio State’s Justin Hilliard would be a nice addition to a veteran-laden group.
Hilliard spent six years at Ohio State, as he had to battle through injuries, but he ended his career on a high note with a strong showing against Alabama in the national title game. On Saturday, Hilliard racked up four tackles, capping off a Senior Bowl week that really helped improve his draft stock.
Once considered the best linebacker prospect in the country, Hilliard has had a long road to get to this place and would be a guy you know is going to come in and work hard. He has a nose for the ball, is an excellent tackler, and would provide the Raiders with solid depth at linebacker.
The Raiders’ defense is going to be the key in them getting to the playoffs next season, as they finished No. 30 in the league in points allowed per game last season. Some feel every pick this year should be used on the defense, and as we saw this week at the Senior Bowl, there is some special talent available once again this year.