2022 NFL draft: 3 draft targets if the Raiders trade up

2022 NFL draft: 3 draft targets if the Raiders trade up

Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State

This off-season, the Raiders have not only signed both Demarcus Robinson and Mack Hollins but made a trade to acquire the best wideout in all of football. Despite that, the Raiders have consistently been reported to have interest in starting-caliber wideouts to take over as the no.2 on the outside, dating as recent as two weeks ago when they were said to be a player for Brandin Cooks.

Needless to say, the receiving corps in Las Vegas has been much improved, but there’s still reason to look to add to the unit. The main reason? Speed.

The Silver and Black have scrambled to put together a good group of players for their new receiver group, but something is still missing, and that’s an ability to take the top off a defense. I’ve talked about this quite a bit since the unit’s remake, and I have no choice but to keep returning to it: The average 40-time for an NFL receiver is 4.48, and only one receiver on the Raiders is faster – Tyron Johnson.

The problem with Tyron Johnson is, that he may not even make the roster. If he does, his special teams presence will likely be the deciding factor in such a move. Meanwhile, Penn State’s Jahan Dotson not only runs a 4.43 40-yard dash but is a legitimate starting caliber receiver on the outside.

Dotson has speed, runs routes very well, and is a deep threat defenses must account for on any given down. His hands are remarkable, too; On 93 catchable targets, Dotson was credited for only 2 drops.

This is a perfect addition to the Raiders’ offense and a player that gives the Silver and Black limitless options. Not only does placing Dotson on the outside opposite of Davante Adams give Las Vegas the personnel to do anything they want through the passing game, but it’s also a move that indirectly helps set the rushing offense.

Getting the run going is something that could prove to be the deciding factor in the AFC West, and keeping opposing defenses as honest as possible by loading up in the passing game will pay dividends in that regard.

During his senior year at Penn State, Dotson posted 1,182 receiving yards and 12 receiving touchdowns. The stud receiver also managed to showcase his versatility by breaking the plane an additional time on the ground.