Raiders 2022 NFL Draft: Day 2 defensive studs to watch for

Raiders Day 2 prospect watch: Nik Bonitto, DL, Oklahoma

The Raiders would be fools to pass up Nik Bonitto with the 86th pick if he is available. Currently listed as the 77th-ranked prospect by Pro Football Network, Bonitto is not your prototypical edge rusher. In fact, he’s another prospect that is setting the tone for this year’s draft with his versatility, an ability to line up on the edge or drop back as a linebacker, helping in either coverage or a blitz.

Based on 549 snaps taken, Pro Football Focus awarded Bonitto notable grades for his 2021 season. He received a 92.6 pass rushing grade and a 73.7 in run defense. His coverage wasn’t too far behind either, with a 66.9 grade and a pass deflection to his credit.

Last season, Bonitto also totaled 15 tackles for a loss and seven sacks. No doubt, his noteworthy acceleration was attributed to that. His footwork and speed allow him to be a disruptive force in the backfield, hunting down quarterbacks or running backs.

He possesses remarkable flexibility and movement, which makes it difficult for blockers to get a hold of him. In effect, Bonitto can easily pierce through an offensive line in the blink of an eye.

PFF’s Anthony Treash has him listed as one of his top Day 2 prospects. If he’s available, the Raiders need to pounce. Once he puts on more weight for an NFL team, Bonitto could become a three-down player.