Raiders 2022 NFL Draft: 3 surprise positions Las Vegas may target early

Raiders 2022 NFL Draft: 3 surprise positions Las Vegas may target early

Safety

This one is a little different. Like both receiver and linebacker, I’m a fan of what Dave Ziegler has done to this position. [Trevon] Moehrig had a promising rookie campaign, Abram excels against the run and brings pass rushing skills, Harmon can play both safety spots while excelling in coverage, and Teamer rotates in with high energy.

The main issue here is Abram’s lack of coverage skills, making him a liability on passing downs. With Harmon now on the roster, the team now has a strong safety who excels in coverage. Still, there’s someone I have in mind who’s an every-down safety with great versatility and high potential.

What makes my safety selection different from the other two is, unlike the two previous listed positions, I have one guy in particular in mind – Maryland’s Nick Cross.

I watch the tape and can’t help but think this is a Raider. From the aggressiveness Raider safeties are noted for, to the versatility which would allow him to flourish in Graham’s defensive system, Cross checks every box.

Throughout his 27 contests at Maryland, the versatile defensive back has recorded 4 sacks, 5 interceptions, 10 pass breakups, and 134 total tackles. Cross has even been able to force 3 fumbles, bringing big play ability to a defense.

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This is a player that played everywhere in Maryland’s secondary, doing a little bit of everything. Cross’ draft stock has been consistently on the rise for weeks, but if he’s there when the Raiders are on the clock in the third, I can’t help but think Patrick Graham will be begging Dave Ziegler to make this pick.