Oakland Raiders Mock Draft: The Final Puzzle Pieces
By Erik Lambert
This is it. The 2016 season could be the one where the Oakland Raiders finally break out after over a decade of frustration of missing the playoffs. They have a young, talented and emerging roster in place but are still a few key pieces away from convincing anybody that they are ready to take on Denver and Kansas City for supremacy in the AFC West. Can GM Reggie McKenzie put together one more good draft to pull it off?
Maybe this latest mock will answer that question.
1st Round
Most expect Bruce Irvin to take the place of Aldon Smith as the pass rusher opposite Khalil Mack. The reality is though that Irvin is not the same type of player. He’s a situational rusher who spends a lot of time as an outside linebacker either chasing ball carriers or dropping into coverage. It would be much easier if the Raiders were able to find a true defensive end that can bring constant heat. <p> </p> <p>Perhaps the most exciting one on the board in terms of size, length, athleticism and sheer high motor is Kevin Dodd. He showed in his dominant performance against Alabama that he was an emerging talent with a knack for going after the quarterback. He’s got enough power to set the edge against the run and has a variety of different ways he can get into the backfield thanks to his quickness and solid power. He’s at his best when he has another talent rushing across from him, so the Raiders are a perfect fit.</p>. DE. Clemson. Kevin Dodd . 14. player. 28
Next: 2nd Round