Round 1, Pick 12: Henry Ruggs, WR Alabama
While Ruggs is third on my big board, coach Jon Gruden reportedly loves Ruggs, and GM Mike Mayock loves CeeDee Lamb. The 100-million-dollar man gets his guy as I believe Jeudy & Lamb will be gone by this point. No worry for the Raiders, as the Ghost of Al Davis will be satisfied with the 4.27 Henry Ruggs.
TRADE!
Eagles Receive: Pick 19 (875 point-value)
Raiders Receive: Pick 21 (800 point value) , Pick 127 (45 point-value), Pick 146 (33 point-value)
In this scenario, the Eagles jump the Jags to get a receiver. The Jags just released Marqise Lee, but their defense needs help. Therefore, I have them taking the best defensive player at pick 9 and a receiver at 20. The Eagles desperately need a WR1 and will jump the Jags to get their guy.
Round 1, Pick 21: AJ Terrell, CB Clemson
Mayock must be salivating at trading down and still getting his guy. Terrell is a big, physical cornerback at 6’1, 190 lbs. He can play well in PGs bump ‘n run defense. However, he’s not a Week 1 starter. He needs to work on his footwork, contested catches, and overall discipline, he will eventually lock down receivers opposite Trayvon Mullen. Mayock drafted a diamond in the rough in Mullen, why not reunite the Ol’ Tigers?
TRADE!
Ravens Receive: Pick 80 (190 point-value), Pick 146 (33 point-value), G Gabe Jackson.
Raiders Receive: Pick 55 (350 point-value).
In this trade scenario, the Raiders unload to over 9 million dollars in cap space and give up a few picks, while trading into round 2. The Yanda-less Ravens get a Pro Bowl-caliber RG that can protect the reigning MVP as they push for a third Lombardi.
Round 2, Pick 55: Jalen Hurts, QB Oklahoma
Like it or not, the Raiders love Jalen Hurts. More importantly, the ten-million-dollar man loves Hurts and gets Mayock to work the board to get him. Gruden will let Hurts sit for most of his rookie contract but will become his guy in the future. He did the same thing with Rich Gannon. Gannon was a 4th round pick for the Patriots that floated around the league, but Gruden made him an MVP. I believe he sees the same possibility with Hurts.
Round 3, Pick 81: Terrell Burgess, S Utah
The Raiders spent a 1st rounder on Abram last year but did not get to see him play a full season. With the addition of Damarious Randall and Abram coming back, Burgess doesn’t have to start at all this season (barring no injuries). Burgess can play special teams and has the intangibles Mayock loves. With athleticism, a relentless motor, and a high football IQ, the Raiders may have found a steal in this draft.
Round 3, Pick 91: Malik Harrison, ILB Ohio State
The Raiders shored up the LB position but could use depth. Morrow and Wilber are special teamers who consistently lack in pass coverage. Enter Malik Harrison, who can play special teams, blitz off the edge, and cover, the Raiders get a young LB who can be a rotational guy for years to come.
Round 4, Pick 121: AJ Dillon, RB Boston College
Jacobs is the offensive identity, but he can’t do it alone. According to Mayock, Richard is the best pass-blocking back in football, and it’s no secret that he has good hands. At 6’0 249 lbs, Dillon gives the Raiders a true power-back.
Round 4, Pick 127: Solomon Kindley, OG Georgia
With the gameday roster rule change, the Raiders can have 8 active offensive linemen. Kindley’s a big body with raw blocking ability. Look for the Raiders to grab a rotational guard for gamedays.
Round 5, Pick 159: DT Rashard Lawrence, DT LSU
The Raiders take a chance on some raw talent and add a big body in national champion, Rashard Lawrence.
Photo Credit: CBS Sports
