2021 NFL Draft: Realistic options at pick No. 17 for the Las Vegas Raiders

Raider Nation is familiar with the Raiders’ draft philosophy since head coach Jon Gruden returned and general manager Mike Mayock arrived. They place an emphasis on ‘character,’ and seemingly reach on many selections, banking more on potential than anything else.

No one’s knocking players such as Clelin Ferrell, Damon Arnette, and Johnathan Abram, but clearly, the organization’s brain trust is whiffing more than hitting.

None of the above players above are ‘busts’ by any means, at least not yet. Nevertheless, looking back at which players were taken instead of those Raiders’ selections, it doesn’t paint a good portrait. It’s surely maddening for observers to see how many impact players could’ve joined the Silver and Black since 2018.

Even Henry Ruggs III, who was taken in the first round last April for his blazing speed is already being questioned by fans. Especially when receivers such as Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb, and Justin Jefferson all had more successful rookie campaigns.

Here’s the thing though Las Vegas is now entering its fourth year under the Gruden regime, and this draft is of the utmost importance. They don’t have as many picks as they’ve had in previous player selection meetings. In other words, they can’t afford to reach on any picks, especially the 17th selection, assuming they don’t execute a trade.

Given the circumstances, it would be in the Raiders’ best interest to keep it simple in 2021. No reaches or ‘projects,’ instead, be practical and go with the best player available, regardless of position. Here are some practical options for the Raiders, let’s take a look.