Non-QB Picks for the Raiders at 13th Overall
The Las Vegas Raiders have a lot of flexibility in what they can do with their first-round pick in this year's NFL Draft. While many expect the Raiders to explore all options to draft a quarterback, there are plenty of options the Raiders could choose to address that aren't quarterback-related.
NFL Writer Bill Williamson believes the Raiders could take quality players at multiple positions, including defensive tackle Byron Murphy from the University of Texas.
"There have been a lot of mock drafts connecting [Byron] Murphy to the Raiders, and for good reason," Williamson said. "He is a gifted player who has star potential. The Raiders have been lacking a true impact player at defensive tackle for years. If Murphy is what everyone expects him to be, the Raiders’ defensive front would have a chance to be special."
Williamson lists Penn State tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu as a player who is also known to be on the Raiders' draft board.
"This is another player being connected to the Raiders in mock drafts," Williamson said. "There are a lot of top tackle options for the Raiders, and it will come down to fit."
The Raiders could use help along their offensive line, with three offensive linemen set to become free agents this offseason. Williamson thinks Taliese Fuaga from Oregon State could be worth the Raiders drafting.
"If he falls to No. 13 (that will be tricky because the Jets are said to be in love with him, and they pick 10th), Fuaga will be a steal. He has a chance to be dominant from Day One."
Offensive tackle JC Latham could be an option for the Las Vegas Raiders at 13th overall.
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell may have attended a smaller school while at Toledo, but Williamson believes Mitchell has the potential to be the Raiders' top pick in this year's draft, should they remain at 13th.
"He is another real possibility at No. 13. He produced on the field and has stood out in the draft process so far. This could be his sweet spot. The Raiders want a game-changer at cornerback, and he can be the answer.
Williamson believes two former Alabama players could be the Raiders' choice at 13. Tackle JC Latham and cornerback Terrion Arnold could both fit well with the Raiders.
"[Latham is] another good option at No. 13. if the Raiders choose to go offensive line, this Alabama product could be the choice."
"It will be interesting to see if both Mitchell and Arnold are on the board at No. 13, and they could be," Williamson said. "Arnold has played at the highest level, and he is considered a strong alpha type who is a high-character player. He seems like the type of guy Raiders coach Antonio Pierce craves."
The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the No. 13 overall pick.
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