Mike Mayock is one of the most respected (and connected) draft analysts covering the NFL. He spoke on a conference call last week and offered a few names he believes are most likely to be called by the Raiders in the first round.
Mayock said two players who stood out as the Raiders most hopeful options with the 10th overall pick are Georgia linebacker Roquan Smith and Florida State safety Derwin James.
“You’d sprint that up to the podium and be really happy with either,” Mayock said via the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Mayock said other defensive players that should be in the mix are Ohio State cornerback Denzel Ward, Alabama safety/cornerback Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Virginia Tech linebacker Tremaine Edmunds.
If the Raiders do draft an offensive player with the 10th pick, Mayock believes it could be the big offensive tackle from Notre Dame.
“I think a guy like Mike McGlinchey, who is clearly the No. 1 tackle in the draft, would have to be of interest. I think on the defensive side, there’s a bunch of playmakers that are considered top 10 picks that could fit in with them.”
McGlinchey probably wouldn’t be the top tackle in recent drafts, but the Raiders overwhelming need at the position could force their hand a little – and the left tackle options in the draft behind McGlinchey aren’t particularly exciting.
One thing I’ve heard which puts the Notre Dame tackle in play for the Raiders at 10. Tackle draft is terrible, and the drop off will be dramatic post round 1. I think it’s very possible he’s the guy if they don’t go Minkah/James (assuming Smith is gone & he will be)
— John Middlekauff (@JohnMiddlekauff) April 24, 2018
Others have McGlinchey linked to the Raiders with the 10th pick, but most believe that if the Raiders don’t trade the 10th pick, defense will be the best value.
Elsewhere, a defender linked to the Raiders in recent weeks is Washington defensive tackle Vita Vea, but Mayock doesn’t feel Vea would be the Raiders best use of their 10th pick.
“I think there’s going to be some better value for them at 10, and I love Vita Vea, but I’m just not sure what he gives you as a rusher in your sub package, which you’re in 60 to 70 percent of the time.”
As of now, the consensus seems to be that if the Raiders decide to trade the 10th pick, offensive tackle, tight end, and running back become much more viable options toward the middle/end of the first round.
If the Raiders keep the 10th pick, a defensive player would probably provide the best value.
twitter: @raidersbeat
tight end??????
My guess is Dallas Goedert since Grude wants to run more two TE sets…and Cook is not good blocker, good receiver, but 5.3$ could be used to resign Bowman if miss on Roquan which is guaranteed barring a trade up..
Dont trade back or draft O for the first 3 rds.
We need a linebacker!!! Come on. Smith or Edmunds.
Defense… they need a playmaker besides Mack..
Kinda tired of all the Safety talk. I am not even sure S is a WANT until we find out what Obi can do. Safety falls way down the list after NEEDS like slot/fast CB to cover fast and quick WR’s like Hill; a 3 down LB; and OT. S is also after a DT that can rush the passer and 4-3 EDGE (which are wants).
Tackle is a huge need. RT has been a disaster and how many years does Penn have left. You need to protect the QB and if it’s not done this year, next year will be desperation is Penn retires. LB is need but one can be found later in the draft, we have a good DC now who finds LB’s. As for safety, we need playmakers on defense and Fitzpatrick and James would fit. Obi was another wasted 2nd rounder by Reggie. Although not a pressing need they maybe the best two overall players that are left at #10.