2021 NFL Draft: Las Vegas Raiders all-defense 3-round mock draft
With the 79th in the third round, the Las Vegas Raiders select Richie Grant out of Central Florida. Grant was a three-year starter and was named first-team All-AAC every year that he started for the Knights because of his excellent on-field performance.
After his freshman year as a rotational player, Grant became a starter and one of the more productive defensive backs in college football. In 34 games as a starter, Grant recorded 258 tackles, 10.5 sacks, 16 passes defended, 10 interceptions, and 5 forced fumbles. He has the production and tape to back up being an early-round selection and has solid measurables as well.
At his pro day, Grant measured in at 5-11,186lbs so he is a bit on the smaller side and may need to fill out but that is what an NFL-level workout program is for. Grant does have the speed to play the position, however, having run a 4.53 40 and showed great athleticism in his 6.78-second 3-cone drill and 10’9″ broad jump.
The Raiders brought back former first-round pick Karl Joseph who was an excellent free safety at West Virginia and has played there at the NFL level but this position is still a need. The contract details have not been released but it is believed to be a one-year deal so the Raiders will be able to work Grant into the rotation until he is ready to take on the role full time.