Oakland Raiders: The 2018 NFL Draft Report Card
By Erik Lambert
2nd Round: P.J. Hall (NT, Sam Houston State) – B+
People will automatically think undersized and come from a smaller program with Hall. That would be a mistake. Look at his tape and his rather crazy production. Forget big fish in small pond. He played like Jaws in a bird bath. A defensive tackle who racks up 42 sacks in college at any level is something worth seeing. He’s got loads of power and good explosion. There is value here if the Raiders use him right.
3rd Round: Brandon Parker (OT, North Carolina A&T) – C+
Tarik Cohen didn’t become a 2017 draft favorite by himself. Great as he was, he needed good blocking and the best of the bunch who helped him at North Carolina A&T was Brandon Parker. Like most offensive linemen from smaller schools, he’s lacking in power and technique but his giant body and athletic upside are pluses. He’s also tough and plays with an edge. A project for sure, but worth the investment.
3rd Round: Arden Key (EDGE, LSU) – B
Arden Key is a 1st round talent. In fact, he’s a top 10 talent. The problem is he’s drifting into that “million dollar body, ten cent brain” territory with some of his off-the-field decisions. He went to rehab for marijuana use and then reported back to LSU 30 lbs overweight. Discipline is a major concern with him, but the natural ability as a pass rusher is so enticing. If he reaches his potential, then Khalil Mack just got even more dangerous.