The State of the Raiders:
After trading their first- and second-round selections for Davante Adams, the Raiders still have many holes and no path to address them. Their lone third round pick at 86th overall is the first chance new head coach Josh McDaniels will have in filling the various needs the Raiders possess, specifically on the offensive and defensive lines. Had they not made the Davante trade, WR would have been at the top of the list of needs for Las Vegas. In a loaded division with the Chiefs, Chargers, and Broncos, the Raiders desperately need to find Day 1 starters.
#86 Overall
Parham is a smart player with the athleticism and quickness to be a versatile lineman, but will need to get stronger and more physical to maximize his potential at the next level.
Parham is a 4 year starter with good FBI, and the Raiders could use that experience immediately.
Cole Strange – OG – Chattanooga
Strange has the reactive athleticism to mirror defenders, consistent leg drive to move them, and the nastiness to finish through the whistle, but he’ll need to improve his balance, footwork, and awareness to maximize his potential.
The Raiders being a zone-based run team in 2021, Strange’s massive experience playing that for Chattanooga makes him a good fit for Vegas.
Bryant doesn’t have elite speed and needs to become a better tackler, but is an intelligent and athletic corner who has the field awareness and ball skills to be a long-time starter at the next level.
Corner depth in a division with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Russell Wilson is paramount to their ability to make the playoffs.
Matthew Butler – DT – Tennessee
Butler has the first-step explosion, heavy hand punch, and nonstop motor to be disruptive, but his lack of strength and agility likely keep him from being a three-down starter at the next level.
A run defender who has experience all over the defensive line, this helps the Raiders improve upon their below-average zone run defense.
To learn more about the Raiders and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.
