Las Vegas Raiders: Grading the 7-player 2021 NFL Draft class
Round 4: No. 143 – Tyree Gillespie, S, Missouri
The Raiders traded up once again to sneak back into the fourth round after trading their original selection in the round to move up in the second round and used it on safety Tyree Gillespie from Missouri. Technically Gillespie was the third safety the Raiders selected given Deablo’s position designation but he and Moehrig are the only true safeties they selected.
Most mock drafts had Gillespie going in the 4th round so he went right at his sweet spot but there is plenty to be excited about with this selection. Gillespie measured in at 5-11, 207lbs and ran a 4.42 40 at his pro day so he has solid size and speed to compete at the NFL level.
The former Mizzou Tiger is a three-year starter in the SEC where he faced some elite competition but he has some deficiencies to his game which is normal for a player picked this late. He projects immediately as a backup at either safety position and can contribute immediately on special teams as a gunner with his speed and sure tackling.
Given his draft grade and projection, Gillespie appears to be good value for the 143rd overall pick and he fills a need as depth in the defensive secondary.