Duke OL Graham Barton Talks Las Vegas Raiders
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- The Las Vegas Raiders are deep into the 2024 NFL Draft process as the NFL Scouting Combine has wrapped up for another year.
The Raiders hope to come away from Lucas Oil Stadium with a better understanding of which prospects best fit what they are trying to build.
Las Vegas is looking to improve at any and every position they can as they look to return to the postseason in 2024. Under Coach Antonio Pierce and General Manager Tom Telesco, the Raiders are beginning a new era they want to kick off by winning.
The Raiders have a few free agents on their offensive line, so they could be looking to make some changes at that position.
One offensive lineman in the draft they could consider is offensive lineman Graham Barton of Duke, who is one of the most versatile offensive linemen in this draft class, a two-time First-Team All-ACC member and a Second-Team All-American.
Duke offensive lineman Graham Barton is one of the most versatile offensive linemen in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
According to Pro Football Focus, Barton played primarily left tackle for the Blue Devils but projects to be able to play both guard and center if needed in the NFL. He played center during his freshman season and also could see a full-time move to guard.
Barton said he has met with the Raiders and spoke about that meeting.
“It was great,” Barton said. “Coach Pierce was in there, same thing, just getting to know me as a football player and on and off the field, just getting to know them and them getting to know me. It was an introductory meeting, but I think it went well. I enjoyed getting to meet everyone in there.”
The Raiders value versatility in their offensive linemen, as several of their players can play multiple positions. Barton spoke about his versatility.
“I think I could fit into a lot of offensive lines in the NFL,” Barton said. “Like you said, I think I’m a versatile offensive lineman. I’m athletic, I play with my feet well, I’ve got fast feet, so I think that transitions well for me to many offensive lines, being able to play out of different stances and different positions.”
Barton allowed only two sacks in 2023 and 11 total pressures, according to PFF. He plays with an edge in the running game and can block in either a zone or gap scheme.
To read our full scouting report on Barton, click here.
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.
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