Raiders 2023 7-round Mock Draft: Las Vegas lands a franchise QB

Raiders 2023 7-round Mock Draft: Las Vegas lands a franchise QB

The Raiders’ much-maligned offensive line has been a focus of much controversy this season as most observers can’t agree on if they’re any good or not. PFF gives them a solid pass protection rate but also has them 24th in pressures surrendered. From the eye test there are games where they dominate but plenty where they get dominated as well.

We have seen a revolving door at most of the positions on the line and building up depth is an absolute must. Perhaps with the cap room saved by moving on from Derek Carr, the Raiders can build up the offensive line again but grabbing a young player in Jaxson Kirkland can be a big help as well.

Kirkland has played primarily left tackle in his career at Washington but has also taken snaps at guard early in his career. He is a massive man at 6-7, 310 lbs, and is one of the better pass blockers in this draft. Scouts believe his future is at tackle due to his footwork and size, but he can also play guard if needed.

The Raiders have used guys like Jermaine Eluemunor at both guard and tackle this year and have the right coaching in place to do so with Kirkland.

The concerns around Kirkland and the reason why he looks like a Day 3 pick is because of a need to add some weight to his frame to improve his strength. They consider him a solid but not great athlete so he can be beaten by speedy edge rushers if he does play snaps at tackle.

Despite the need for improvements, he looks like a great developmental prospect and a potentially vital depth piece for the Las Vegas offensive line.