2021 NFL Draft: Day 3 linebackers for Las Vegas Raiders to target
2021 NFL Draft: Day 3 linebackers for Las Vegas Raiders to target
LB. Hawkeyes . NICK NIEMANN. 4. player. 878.
If the Raiders are looking for big thumper that has sideline to sideline ability in the run game, they should look no further than Iowa’s Nick Niemann. Measuring in at 6-3, 234lbs, Niemann ran a 4.48 40 at his pro day, a 6.67 in the three-cone drill, and put up 19 reps on the bench press to show off his elite strength and athleticism.
Niemann did not become a regular start until his junior year but was a consistent contributor as a sophomore and was named team captain as a senior. He lead the team in tackles with 77 as a senior and also had 2.5 tackles for loss and a fumble recovery.
The Illinois native projects as a great run defender at the NFL level and has the athleticism to contribute on special teams as well. His primary weaknesses are in coverage but the hope will be that his speed and athleticism can lay the foundation for improvement there with some NFL-level coaching.
Niemann is another player that can contribute immediately on special teams and as a rotational linebacker because of his natural ability to make plays against the run. Iowa is known for pumping out great linebackers and Niemann, especially with a day 3 pick, would be worth the risk given his high floor and upside.