2023 NFL Mock Draft: Raiders building around Maxx Crosby

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 20: Defensive end Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates with teammates after a sack to force a three-and-out in the second half of a game at Empower Field at Mile High on November 20, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 20: Defensive end Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates with teammates after a sack to force a three-and-out in the second half of a game at Empower Field at Mile High on November 20, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 3
Next
Raiders
(Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) /

2-Round 2023 NFL Raiders Mock Draft: Building around Maxx Crosby

DL. TyreeWilson. player. 1st. 28. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Texas Tech

Assuming that my aforementioned scenario occurs, the Raiders would be smart to go with Tyree Wilson from Texas Tech. The top wide receiver prospects would likely still be on the board, but Raider Nation would have an aneurysm if Ziegler went that route. Will Levis would also be available, but again, if the team continues winning, moving on from Carr won’t make sense. Instead, do right by Crosby and retool the defensive line with Wilson.

Strengths

A versatile lineman, Wilson has accumulated seven sacks, one forced fumble, 14 tackles for a loss, and 61 total tackles this season. On top of a relentless motor, Wilson has notable speed and quickness for someone his size (6’6″ and 275 pounds).

Listed as an edge rusher, Wilson might actually end up becoming a fearsome pass rusher inside, which is exactly what the Raiders need.

Possessing remarkable movement, Wilson combines that with those deadly heavy hands of his. He consistently manhandled blockers throughout his career using excellent technique, but on top of that, he’s a specimen, retaining exceptional strength at the point of attack. In fact, you can double-team him, but he’ll simply overpower you.

Weaknesses

The biggest concern might be a lack of speed coming off the edges. Hence, he’d be a better fit inside. Raiders fans have nightmares recalling the bust that Clelin Ferrell has been, but Wilson wouldn’t be in the same scenario.

Wilson overpowers offensive linemen inside and does his damage there when he shifts his size, speed, and raw strength, turning it into power, then overwhelming blockers. If the Raiders were to have a consistent pass rush from the inside, it would do wonders for Crosby.