2017 NFL Draft Team Needs: Breaking Down All 32 Teams

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view as Carson Wentz (North Dakota State) is selected by the Philadelphia Eagles as the number two overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Anderson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view as Carson Wentz (North Dakota State) is selected by the Philadelphia Eagles as the number two overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Anderson-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 8, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Oakland Raiders owner Mark Davis watches on the sidelines before a NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; Oakland Raiders owner Mark Davis watches on the sidelines before a NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Oakland Raiders

Key Draft Needs: LB, CB, RB

Record: 11-3

Linebacker – The Raiders have some great pass rushing linebackers in Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin. What they need are some top flight off-ball linebackers. Malcolm Smith is a free agent this year, and really the Raiders could upgrade there anyway. Having another beast to play alongside Khalil Mack would make this Raiders front-seven even more frightening.

Cornerback – Oakland has struggled some with injuries here, but the CB position could stand to be upgraded opposite David Amerson. D.J. Hayden is a free agent this offseason, so look for the Raiders to try to find some upgrades here. Sean Smith’s contract allows Oakland to move on after one year, and the way he’s played might warrant a one-and-done year for him in black and silver.

Running Back – Latavius Murray is a free agent, and I think the Raiders should look for an upgrade here anyway. Murray has been solid as has the depth behind him, but there’s nothing spectacular running behind this excellent offensive line right now. In a class as deep as this year, the Raiders can not afford to pass on a quality back.