2021 NFL Draft: Las Vegas Raiders dueling 7-round mock drafts
80. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. AlimMcNeill. player. 28. DT. North Carolina State
Vegas beefed up its defensive line with free agents, signing Quinton Jefferson, Solomon Thomas and Darius Philon. The club also re-signed David Irving, Johnathan Hankins and Kendal Vickers. All of them signed one-year deals.
Mike Mayock and Gus Bradley can look toward the future with this selection. Alim McNeill still has room to grow as a pass-rusher, but he leaves North Carolina State with great upside as an established run-stopper.
At 6’2″, 317 pounds, McNeill can reset the line of scrimmage and match sheer power with pro centers and guards. He did post 10 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss, so don’t underestimate his ability to penetrate on the interior.
Writer’s Pick: CB Aaron Robinson, UCF
Amik Robertson should have an opportunity to earn the starting slot cornerback job this offseason. In 2020, he transitioned from the perimeter to the inside and only lined up for 35 defensive snaps.
Still, the coaching staff can foster a competitive battle for the slot position. Keep in mind, Robertson isn’t a natural inside cornerback. He may not make a smooth transition. Just in case, Aaron Robinson provides cover with his experience in that role.
Robinson reads and reacts quickly, which allows him to swarm the ball and sniff out a play before it becomes a big gain for the opposing team. He plays with the confidence to handle coverage and downhill assignments.