Raiders Moves Give Draft Day Clues
The Las Vegas Raiders have made multiple moves this offseason that have the potential to kickstart their run to the playoffs next season.
After barely missing the postseason last season, the Raiders have started fixing the holes on their roster. Their moves so far could give insight into the Raiders' plans for this year's NFL Draft.
The Raiders have made a splash in free agency by signing defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to a four-year deal, officially solidifying their defensive line heading into next season.
Las Vegas also made a few less flashy moves, like bringing back running back Ameer Abdullah and starting center Andre James. The moves might have flown under the league-level radar, but both were significant for various reasons.
By signing Wilkins, the Raiders' defensive line is as solid as it could reasonably get, considering they already have Maxx Crosby, Malcolm Koonce and Tyree Wilson.
The Raiders likely won't use their first-round draft pick on a defensive lineman.
After signing James, the Raiders are more likely to use free agency to build out their offensive line. The chances of using any of their premium picks on the offensive line are also slim.
The Las Vegas Raiders made moves that could give an idea of their draft day plans.
Robert Scheer/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Gardner Minshew, likely confirming that the cost of moving up to draft one of the top quarterbacks available was too high for General Manager Tom Telesco and the Raiders.
Signing Minshew also could also show the team's confidence in current starting quarterback Aidan O'Connell.
Signing a veteran like Minshew and having him compete with O'Connell would give the Raiders serviceable play at the quarterback position at a low cost. However, investing this year's first-round pick in a quarterback now seems unlikely.
The Raiders' decision to let running back Josh Jacobs walk in free agency means they plan to for a running back by committee moving forward, with Abdullah and Zamir White.
However, if that is the Raiders' plan at running back, it could mean they are open to drafting a talented running back in the mid to late rounds to have on the roster moving forward, as Abdullah enters the later years of his career.
With the Raiders seem set at quarterback, running back and wide receiver, they need only a few quality additions along the offensive line, which they could find in free agency or with one of their later picks in the NFL Draft .
It sure looks like the Raiders are leaning toward keeping the 13th overall pick and drafting a defensive player.
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