After the Las Vegas Raiders emerged from the first round with what they perceive as two starters, the true work begins. With no picks until the eightieth overall, the team needs to either attempt to move up or wisely draft within the third round. Under the conditions of standing pat, which they did in the first round, here are players that Raiders could draft that makes the most sense.
Kyle Dugger, Safety, Lenoir-Rhyne
Rationale
The Raiders signed Demarious Randall while employing Lamarcus Joyner and Erik Harris. Between them, they surrendered sixteen receiving touchdowns. Meanwhile, only Harris possesses a preferred size. On the other hand, Dugger’s size/speed/ball skills immediately improve the back end of the rotation opposite of Abram. Now, don’t let Dugger’s range fool you. He will strike a ballcarrier with a combination of force and handwork that will force fumbles.
Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
Rationale
With the selection of Henry Ruggs, the Raiders satisfied the need for a twitched-up receiver. Now, they need to bring in Tyrell Williams’ eventual replacement. Gandy-Golden is not a burner but doesn’t need to be. He wins with long strides and the strength to fend off corners during contact catches. Gruden cherishes bigger wideouts. He realizes that hand-fighting suits the bigger player.
Zack Moss, RB, Utah
Rationale
In 2019, Josh Jacobs displayed the ability to carry the ground game as a foundational back. However, the Raiders, especially Jon Gruden need to exercise restraint and not horse their lead back. Moss provides the team with a midround back that loves contact and falls forward. He embodies what Gruden wants his backs to show defenses. If the Raiders paired Jacobs and Moss, their approach batters the front seven. As a result, those playaction shots vertically open up.
Bryan Edwards, WR, South Carolina
Rationale
Speaking of physical running, Edwards could start as the fourth wideout, then climb the roster, providing a second option. Edwards, with the ball, runs with anger and force. He will stiff-arm a corner into the next real. With his size, the Raiders would capitalize in the red zone. Hidden amongst the stats is what Mayock and Gruden could see in Edwards. On perimeter running plays, Edwards attempts to ragdoll defensive backs. By willing to do the dirty work, he will earn attention.
