Las Vegas Raiders: 3 positions to avoid in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft

The Las Vegas Raiders have holes to fill on both sides of the ball, but these are the position groups to avoid with the No. 17 overall pick.

As we inch closer to the 2021 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders still have their issues on both sides of the ball. However, there are some areas that they should look to avoid in the first round, as the talent may not be there at pick No. 17, or there are other pressing needs they should address.

We take a look at three of those positions they should pass on in the first round.

Las Vegas Raiders: 3 positions to avoid in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft

Defensive End

The defensive end position has been an issue for the Raiders franchise since Khalil Mack was traded away prior to the 2018 NFL season, but they do have some talent there heading into the draft. Maxx Crosby has proven to be a legitimate edge rusher since being drafted in the fourth round back in 2019, and the team’s biggest offseason acquisition in free agency was Yannick Ngakoue.

Looking at the position group in terms of prospects, you really only have to believe that Kwity Paye is worth taking with the No. 17 overall pick if he is available. Guys like Azeez Ojulari and Gregory Rousseau could actually land in the top of the second round, and both would be considered projects at this point, which is not the route the Raiders need to go with their only first round pick in 2021.

I believe the team could get another solid piece to add to the defensive tackle mix on Day 2 if they have to, and it is a position to avoid in the first.