Raiders Could Draft Present, Future Help at Offensive Tackle

Offensive tackles aren't cheap, especially those featured on the left. The Raiders have paid Donald Penn decent sums in recent seasons to play at a Pro Bowl level, but he won't be around much longer.

He could call it a career after his contract expires in 2019. The Raiders also need a shorter-term solution at right tackle after trial and error recent years.

That puts offensive tackle firmly in play in the early rounds of this NFL draft. While the Raiders have more pressing needs in 2018, it makes sense to add a right tackle of the present and left tackle of the future right now.

Going young and cheap on the outside seems vital, considering how much center Rodney Hudson and guards Kelechi Osemele and Gabe Jackson are set to make.

Going for a tackle at No. 10 overall shouldn't be eliminated as a prospect, but it makes more sense to trade down some if targeting an offensive tackle in the first round. Here are some options early and a smidge later with the pedigree and talent to be a frontline starter.

Mike McGlinchey, Notre Dame
-- He's the consensus top offensive tackle in this NFL draft, and some even have him going to the Raiders at No. 10. Projections have him going all over the first round, but should be available with a trade down from 10. He's technically sound, with great work ethic and an ability to play on the right and left. Some consider McGlinchey unspectacular, but he's reliable and fits most any blocking scheme.
Projected round (per NFL.com): 1

Kolton Miller, UCLA
-- Miller's one of a surprising few expected to go in the first round, and is considered a player with boom-or-bust potential. He has excellent size and power, fully able to pass protect and run block into the second level. He identifies blitzers and surprise rushers quickly and adjusts, analysts say. He doesn't have great bend and can be vulnerable against power rushers. Opinions vary on Miller's NFL prospects, but he could be the second tackle off the board.
Projected rounds (per NFL.com): 1-2

Orlando Brown, Oklahoma
-- Brown is an All-American and Outland Trophy finalist with some great college tape, but had a terrible combine that hurt his draft prospects. His athleticism and strength were called into question, and analysts say his quickness is below average. He has great size at 6-foot-8, 360 pounds, but doesn't have proportional strength. He could be coached up well, and may be a bargain later on Day 2.
Projected rounds (per NFL.com): 2-3

Joseph Noteboom, Texas Christian
The former Horned Frog has solid size (6-5, 319) and strength, with the ability to add more muscle. Analysts say he's inconsistent, but flashed great talent and athleticism during the combine and the Senior Bowl. He plays well in space, but needs to remain technically sound under pressure. He has all the tools to excel in the pros, especially if paired with a good coach who can develop him quickly.
Projected rounds (per NFL.com): 2-3

Copyright CSNBY - CSN BAY
Contact Us