Raiders treasure chest of first-round picks has turned into Fool’s Gold

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 26: Offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood #70 of the Las Vegas Raiders blocks outside linebacker Brennan Scarlett #57 of the Miami Dolphins during their game at Allegiant Stadium on September 26, 2021, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Dolphins 31-28 in overtime. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

Raiders treasure chest of first-round picks has turned into Fool’s Gold

2021 NFL Draft’s first round

This offseason, the organization made the decision to revamp their entire offensive line, and that meant trading away the likes of Gabe Jackson, Rodney Hudson, and Trent Brown. Hudson, the best center in the league, was the biggest shock, but Jackson and Brown were both starters, with Brown being a Pro Bowl right tackle when healthy.

To make up for the trade of Brown, the Raiders selected Alex Leatherwood from Alabama in the first round, another selection that came as a shock. Most scouts had Leatherwood as a second-round pick, and there were still higher-graded players available, including Christian Darrisaw and Teven Jenkins.

In Year 1, Leatherwood has been a mess, as he is one of the worst pass blockers in the NFL, and has since been moved from right tackle to right guard. He may end up being a solid guard at the NFL level, but this is another miss for Mayock and Gruden, as the offensive line has been absolutely horrendous since the bye week.

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