Las Vegas Raiders: Offensive tackles to target after the first round

Las Vegas Raiders: Offensive tackles to target after the first round

Josh Ball- Marshall

The reason I’m listing Josh Ball first is not that I think he’s the best, but because he has the biggest red flag of the bunch.  He had an allegation of dating violence in 2018 and was suspended from Florida State University, left to go play JUCO ball, before landing at Marshall.

We all know Mark Davis’s stance on domestic violence, and if there is even a hint of an issue with Ball’s character, he is likely out. The Raiders would have to vet this prospect to the fullest, and if they deem him a player they are willing to take a chance on, he has the size and skill to help out in a big way.

As athletic as he is for a big man, he could stand to get stronger, but he was strong enough to hold in own against Conference USA talent, as he was named first-team all-conference. When he started for FSU in 201,7 his first game was against the Duke Blue Devils, and he helped the Seminoles dominate on the ground, earning a starting spot for the next nine games.

Although he played at left tackle most of his career, he projects better at right tackle, because his tall frame might make it harder for him to handle the more athletic defensive ends in the NFL, even though he can get out of his stance quickly.  Ball does have the agility to make blocks on the second level when he’s able to get there, and long arms to help keep a distance between the defender and his quarterback.

If everything off the field checks out ok, Ball could be a player to watch as a developmental swing tackle on day three.