2022 NFL Draft: Early targets for Raiders No. 22 overall pick
By CJ Errickson
The Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 22 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, and here are some targets to keep an eye on this draft season.
This past Saturday, the Las Vegas Raiders season came to a brutal end against the Cincinnati Bengals, but there is no time for remorse. A new season begins despite the playoffs raging on, and the Silver and Black have many decisions to make.
As of now, Mike Mayock is still the team’s general manager despite speculation. In addition, the battle-tested interim head coach Rich Bisaccia also remains at the helm. Should the team keep the duo intact, the organization can genuinely set its sights on both free agency and the 2022 NFL Draft. With that being said, they officially have earned themselves the 22nd overall pick after this past weekend’s wildcard round results.
A good selection where the team can capitalize upon acquiring the best player available while also filling a need.
What are the Las Vegas Raiders’ needs this offseason?
Overall, the Raider roster has budding talent at numerous positions. However, there are significant deficiencies in the following areas.
- Offensive tackle
- Defensive tackle
- Wide receiver
While other position groups could always use a player or two, the ones listed above are in dire need of attention. The offensive line was inconsistent and undisciplined in 2021. After Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, Derek Carr was pressured on 38 percent of his dropbacks – which was the second-most in the NFL.
Moreover, Carr was sacked on 43 separate occasions, tied for 4th most. Most pressures came from the right side of the offensive line as Alex Leatherwood and Brandon Parker allowed 121 total pressures alone.
Not to mention the fact that they contributed 26 total penalties as well. With that being said, there is one offensive lineman who the team should consider targeting with their first-round draft pick in April.