FPC Raiders Mock Draft: Version 3.0

With the 2018 NFL Draft approaching, the Oakland Raiders turn their attention to choosing their rookies. In this draft installment, FPC Raiders writers Ray Aspuria, Anthony Zaragoza, and Terrance Biggs forecast what could potentially occur in Dallas.

Round 1 (10)

Denzel Ward (CB, Ohio State)

Impact defenders flew off the board leaving the choice down to a potential shutdown corner (Ward) and a pass-rushing specialist (Marcus Davenport).

With Oakland’s secondary in shambles despite signings, the pick is Ward, a corner that can cover outside and in the slot. With Rashaan Melvin on a 1-year deal, Ward slides into CB2 next season.

Round 2 (41)

Taven Bryan, (DT, Florida)

The Raiders failed in their attempt to sign Ndamukong Suh last week, but their second round pick in this mock draft is a nice consolation prize. Taven Bryan is one of the top defensive tackles in this year’s draft and it is easy to see why. Bryan’s super athletic, strong, and very explosive off the line. These are traits new Defensive Coordinator Paul Guenther will love to have in his new 4-3 defense. The best part about Bryan is his ability to play both interior lineman positions. Getting a talent like the former Florida Gator in the second round helps the Raiders defense in a big way.

Round 3 (75)

Lorenzo Carter (LB, Georgia)

Few guys offer the same type of size and speed Lorenzo Carter has. Because of his potential and the Raiders need for more pass rush, Carter is the perfect match in the third round. The former Bulldog had 14 sacks in his four-year career at Georgia. Carter has top end speed (4.5 second 40 time) to get after the quarterback but also the lateral movement necessary to cover sideline to sideline. Carter has shown the ability to help in the run game at Georgia and is a ball hawk with his three forced fumbles last season. The five-star high school recruit is the type of player that can give Khalil Mack help on the other side of the defensive line.

Round 4 (110)

Rashaad Penny (RB, San Diego State)

A feature back that has ample time to learn behind beast back Marshawn Lynch. Armed with breakaway speed and the ability to make things happen in the passing game, Penny has plenty of power to go with his burst. He has the ability to push Doug Martin and either Jalen Richard or DeAndre Washington off the roster.

Round 5 (159)

DaeSean Hamilton (WR, Penn State)

When the Raiders traded Cordarrelle Patterson away, the reasoning appeared clear. If a wideout wants to play in Jon Gruden’s offense, they must run precise routes. For Oakland, DaeSean Hamilton does just that. Although he does not fly by corners, Hamilton uses pinpoint accuracy on his breaks and cuts. Also, responds to hard coaching.

Round 5 (173)

Travin Howard (S/LB, TCU)

The Raiders need depth on defense. While Howard may not start, his skill set presents the defense and special teams can use. At TCU, Howard operated at a linebacker spot. However, Howard performed versus the run as well as the pass (3 INT, 10 PBU)

Round 6 (185)

Joseph Noteboom (OT, TCU)

Like Howard, Noteboom excelled during his career in Fort Worth. At the combine and on film, Noteboom fared well with agility, especially in space. As a result, competing on the right side could be in the cards.

Round 6 (212)

Joe Ostman (DE, Central Michigan)

Name a productive Raiders defensive end not named Mack or Irvin? If you cannot, , neither can they. As a result, the team needs quality depth on the edge. Ostman finished a great college career with superb stats. More importantly, his infectious energy and knack for the ball will translate to big plays.

Round 6 (216)

Skyler Phillips (G, Idaho State)

The Raiders boast a stellar interior line. On the other hand, outside of Jon Feliciano, the backups lack the skill to start in a pinch. Meanwhile, Phillips brings an intriguing mix of athleticism and jarring punch to the reserves.

Round 6 (217)

Darius Phillips (CB, Western Michigan)

Granted, Derrick Ansley’s secondary appears packed. In contrast, Shareece Wright is a journeyman that may not see the field. In that case, Phillips provides competition. He is a quick corner will elite ball skills and the ability to flip the field on returns or interceptions.

Round 7 (228)

Equanimeous St. Brown (WR, Notre Dame)

A rangy wide receiver that Derek Carr was accustomed in having with Andre Holmes. The California kid can run routes and use his size and underrated speed to make an impact. Moreover, taken so late, expectations will be quite low. This is an upside pick could compared to DaeSean Hamilton’s selection earlier in this draft. Also, a jumpball threat.