Mocking the Mocks: Post-Combine Edition

   March 23, 2017

April’s around the corner, you guys. We’re almost there.

Mocking the Mocks: Volume II can be located below:

Let’s see what has changed, if anything, with the five analysts we’ve been following…

@PFF_Steve

Analysis: “Oakland has added key pieces to the defense on a yearly basis, and Cunningham can provide a playmaking presence in the middle. He has the athleticism to play zone coverage or cover tight ends, and he has no problem getting dirty in the running game, where his 56 solo run stops led all Power-5 linebackers. The issue for Cunningham is his tackling, where he’s missed 34 attempts over the last two years; if he can cut those down, he’s an excellent three-down linebacker prospect.”

Take: Can’t imagine many are complaining about this selection given the (severe) lack of talent at the linebacker position for the Raiders. While I would be content myself, I prefer saving the linebacker selection for outside of round one. I’m coming around on the value of someone like Raekwon McMillan (who made some money at the Combine) in the second, or perhaps a name like Blair Brown in the third or fourth round.

@MoveTheSticks

Analysis: “This isn’t a big need for the Raiders but Ross could take this passing game to a new level with his big-play ability.”

Take: The island-owner himself, Ross broke records and turned heads in Indianapolis. I think a majority knew he was fast, but I’m not sure many had him breaking the 40 record. Speed aside, there are still question marks surrounding John Ross relating to his health (injuries to both of his knees). When/if healthy, Ross is a home run-hitter with the ability to take the top of the defense on any given snap. He’s DeSean Jackson. Ross would fit nicely in Oakland’s offense where outside of Amari Cooper, there isn’t much speed to be had. All things equal, I may lean toward a player like Curtis Samuel who presents a similar athletic profile without the injury history.

@MelKiperESPN

Analysis: “D.J. Hayden was a miss at No. 12 overall in 2013, and now the Raiders will be looking for cornerback help on Day 1 or Day 2. Enter White, who has what many of the corner prospects above him don’t: experience. A four-year starter for the Tigers, White (5-11, 192) could have been a Day 3 pick a year ago but made the right decision to return to school. The Raiders think they’re Super Bowl contenders, but corner is a gaping hole headed into 2017.”

Take: This pick makes a lot of sense. Heck, any number of cornerbacks at 24 overall will make a lot of sense for this team. With the unfortunate injury to Sidney Jones, I think it’s reasonable to think the first round selection comes down to a player like Tre’ White or Gareon Conley, if Oakland’s looking at a CB, that is. It’s funny that Kiper mentions the Hayden whiff, because that’s exactly who I see when I watch Tre’Davious White. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Tre’ White’s who we all thought D.J. Hayden could be. In White, however, you’re getting a player capable of playing both inside and outside and excelling. Above all else, White’s a high character kid, something we tend to believe factors in to many of McKenzie’s decisions. Bottom line: 24 is a bit of a stretch for me, but I won’t necessarily argue an early corner selection.

@nfldraftscout

Analysis: Mr. Miller doesn’t provide any remarks regarding his selection, but in his latest, he links Auburn defensive lineman Montravius Adams to Oakland.

Take: This is a really bad pick.

If Reggie’s targeting a defensive linemen in the first round, looking at pure talent, it’s got to be Malik McDowell. Even with some “character concerns” tied to his name, these two players (McDowell and Adams) aren’t on the same planet. I’m not even convinced that Adams is a Day 2 player, let alone a first rounder.

I’d be a little upset, to say the least.

@dpbrugler

Analysis: “The Raiders could use a tough, rangy linebacker and Cunningham fits the bill with his ball awareness, play speed and length to keep himself free from blocks.”

Take: Another Cunningham-to-Oakland nod. Brugler’s been consistent, mocking only linebackers to the Raiders in the first round. He must’ve seen a game or two last season, huh?

Catch me on Twitter: @StillRyanFive

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