The Las Vegas Raiders offense needs reinforcements. What better place to remedy this than the 2022 NFL Draft, where they can bolster that side of the ball?
There were many bright spots for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021 despite all the tragedies and happenings. The biggest difference from 2020 was the defense. Under Gus Bradley, the defensive unit made several leaps following a solid draft class that delivered several key contributors including Trevon Moehrig, Nate Hobbs, and Divine Deablo.
Last year’s first-round pick, Alex Leatherwood, had his moments but he also struggled mightily at times, so much so, he was moved from his original position that he was drafted at. With scouting and combine season here, which side should the Raiders focus on? That question will largely depend on who’s calling the shots come April.
We all know this.
There’s no exact science when it comes to drafting. However, the Raiders have made a habit of reaching on picks during Mike Mayock’s (and Jon Gruden’s) tenure. We all know the names by now: Clelin Ferrell, Damon Arnette, etc. There’s also a long “who’s who” of players, the Silver and Black could’ve called their own.
That being said, 2022, more so than any previous offseason, will require that Las Vegas hit their draft picks out of the ballpark. Why? Because the Raiders are ever so close to making a breakthrough.
We’ve all seen the defense take a giant leap forward, now it’s time for the offense. The quarterback class lacks any true sure-fire prospects, not that the Raiders need one. Regardless of who the coach is, the offensive line needs fine-tuning, especially in the middle. The team also needs a receiver to replace what was lost following the tragedy surrounding Henry Ruggs III.
So, let’s take a look at a possible scenario if Las Vegas decides that the offense requires more attention. Of course, we’re assuming that Raiders brass does another fine job in free agency with regards to the defense.
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Fans have seen the Raiders’ run game explode in the last few weeks, a far cry from earlier in the season. In fact, since Week 15, Las Vegas has rushed for a minimum of 85 yards, crossing the century mark twice. However, a long-term replacement is needed for Richie Incognito. Enter Kenyon Green from Texas A & M.
Green is a six-foot-four, 325-pound behemoth that was a five-star recruit that made an immediate impact in college. He made 35 starts in his collegiate career and would be an immediate impact starter for the Raiders.
The guard was a unanimous all-American for the Aggies the previous two seasons. Due to his size, athletic ability, and raw power, Green could realistically be a swing offensive lineman in the NFL, easily moving from the interior to right tackle if need be.
The Draft Network raves about Green’s prowess in the run game:
"“Green has natural functional strength that he uses to become a true road grader in the run game. Offensive coordinators will find it beneficial to call run plays that follow behind Green’s path.”"
When watching his film, you can see that Green is an absolute beast at run blocking. He consistently remains an anchor, demolishing incoming defenders. His lower body strength is an obvious key trait. He’s rarely phased, but what makes him special is his ability to explode off the ball.
On top of this, he’s able to move laterally with ease, moving up and down the line, clearing the way for his running back. The Raiders could have their interior set with Green, Leatherwood, and Andre James manning the middle.
The Raiders could select a pass rusher or a cornerback in the second round, but we’ve seen the lack of talent at wide receiver. Yes, the team could go after a prized free agent. That’s one option. The other could be picking up George Pickens. He’s the six-foot-three 200-pound receiver from Georgia, a downfield threat that would fill the missing link in the Raiders’ passing offense.
Pickens didn’t surpass 1,000 yards receiving in college but what he lacked in yardage he made up in what he did with each catch. In each of his last three years, Pickens averaged nearly more than 14 yards per catch for the season.
In fact, he was 10th in the SEC in 2019 for receiving yards per reception with 14.8 that year. He has reliable hands but it is his route-running and separation that helps him stand out.
The Draft Network highlighted those strengths, particularly the latter.
"“He is a good route-runner. He understands how to attack leverage against man coverage. He also has the skill set to run the entire route tree. He gets good separation at the top of the route. He has good body quickness and speed, which makes him a dangerous threat.“"
When you see him on film, the separation is painfully obvious. He runs crisp routes, but that’s only part of what he does. He has the big-play ability by using his lengthy frame and creating separation as he gets downfield, despite missing an elite burst. A true vertical threat, something that the Raiders need.