2021 NFL Draft: Las Vegas Raiders land defensive star in full first round mock
2021 NFL Draft: Las Vegas Raiders land defensive star in full first-round mock
17. Las Vegas Raiders – DT Christian Barmore, Alabama
The Raiders have glaring needs all over their defense but can only attempt to address one position at this pick. If the Raiders run Gus Bradley’s defensive scheme, they need to improve their defensive line drastically.
Edge and interior are both areas of need, but the Raiders take Alabama’s, Christian Barmore.
Baremore’s college football playoffs’ performance was nothing short of spectacular as he completely took over those two games. He is powerful, while also being very nimble for his size (310 lbs), allowing him to impact both in the run game and as a pass rusher.
The Raiders will still need to address their edge play, but there aren’t many interior pass rushers. Baremore could provide the pressure up the middle, which could make things much easier on whatever edge rushers the Raiders add. Plus, Jon Gruden has shown he loves Alabama players in the first round, so this is right in his wheelhouse.