Raiders should move up in second round for Alabama’s Christian Harris

What could Christian Harris bring to the table?

Standing at six-foot-two and weighing 232 pounds, Harris has the speed, quickness, length, and overall physical presence to chase vertically up and down the line. Harris’s aforementioned speed allows him to effectively work the perimeter and play with a nice quick first step.

His 26 career tackles for loss showcase his ability to get in the offensive backfield, working tight to his defensive line and working his way through consistently. That’s something the Raiders need more of desperately. Graham’s philosophy will require regular adjustments and will require versatility from his linebackers.

Graham could be confident in leaving Harris in both pass coverage or on a run play. The fact that Harris’s awareness and play recognition are his bread and butter means he’ll be an asset. His natural athleticism allows him to easily change direction in pursuit of both tight ends or running backs.

His explosiveness is noteworthy as he can chase down incoming running backs, and the fact that he has the speed to defend from sideline to sideline surely merits consideration from the Raiders.