Raiders 2022 Draft: 5 late-round prospects that can elevate the Raiders

Raiders 2022 Draft: 5 late-round prospects that can elevate the Raiders

Max Mitchell, OT, Louisiana-Lafayette

There were a few offensive linemen I could’ve rolled with here, but Louisiana’s Max Mitchell edged out everyone, for a few reasons.

Cade Mays is a name that intrigues me, being I’m a believer that Alex Leatherwood is better suited at right tackle, and Mays is a guard, unlike Mitchell. Ultimately, not only is Mitchell more of a sure thing, but I have to imagine it doesn’t affect Leatherwood either way as there’s no reason Leatherwood’s line-mate shouldn’t be addressed in either free agency or earlier in the draft.

Mitchell shines as a pass blocker, and as such is best used as a tackle. Truthfully, can be a liability as a run blocker, but it’s easy enough to run in a different direction or send him some help on running downs. He could still benefit from some added weight, though, being he hovers around 300lbs.

There’s no reason for Mitchell to be starting, but if it has to be done, it’s easy enough to move Leatherwood to guard and let the Louisiana alumni take over at right tackle. Leatherwood did struggle at guard consistently last year, though, so it’s best to avoid that if possible. Regardless, he will be a great depth piece, which Vegas lacks in itself.

Could the Raiders add another offensive Pro Bowler in Julio Jones?

With the addition of Davante Adams, the Raiders had added another elite player to their offense. But could they have their eyes on Julio Jones too?

In the end, if the Raiders have the starting line more or fewer figures out by the time the draft comes around, they’ll get plenty of bang for their buck with Mitchell in the fifth. He will be a good depth piece for a team, and a player you can count on to step up in a pinch at the very important tackle spot.