Raiders' Most Recent Rookie Draft Class Grade

The previous coaching staff for the Las Vegas Raiders did an excellent job finding and developing quality players.

That was something they prided themselves on that, in the long run, ended up benefiting the Raiders long after they decided to make a coaching change midway through the season.

NFL Draft Analyst Chad Reuter graded the Raiders' most recent draft class compared to other teams around the National Football League. Reuter gave the class a grade of B overall.

"[Tyree] Wilson did not start any games as a rookie but flashed the power and athleticism to be a force on the edge in time," Reuter said. "His 3.5 sacks only tell part of the story, as he lined up inside and outside to use his length and strengtH.

"Day 2 picks [Michael] Mayer (27-304-11.3, two TDs) and Tucker (19-331-17.4, two TDs) stepped in to contribute as rookies. There's reason to believe they'll be a big part of the passing game in 2024 and beyond, with Mayer a solid move-the-chains tight end and Tucker looking explosive in the slot. Young saw snaps in six of the first seven games but failed to earn playing time the rest of the year."

Reuter gave a fair grade for quarterback Aidan O'Connell by considering the circumstances surrounding the rookie quarterback this season.

"[Aidan] O'Connell stepped into a tough situation as a rookie, starting 10 games for a team that fired its head coach and general manager," Reuter said. "He threw eight TDs and no interceptions over the final month of the season, showing the skills to compete for the starting job in 2024 and at least be a longtime backup in the league."

"[Jakorian] Bennett's rookie season went the opposite direction, as he started the first four games but was forced into spot duty after the first month due to injuries and inconsistent play. [Amari] Burney got a chance to start in the middle of the year due to injuries in the linebacker group, but finished the year on special teams with [Chris] Smith."

From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

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.

Ensure you follow on X (Twitter) @HondoCarpenter and IG @HondoSr and never miss another breaking news story again. Sign up RIGHT HERE for our 100% FREE newsletter that comes thrice a week and delivers all our best stories.

Please tell us your thoughts when you like our Facebook Page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.