We are officially just two months away from the NFL Draft. And with the Senior Bowl wrapping up in Mobile, we are getting a better sense of who might be selected in the first round.
But there still is no consensus as to what position the Raiders will select in Round 1. Could the Raiders select another pass rusher in the first round? It’s certainly possible.
In a recent mock draft by USA Today, the Raiders selected Florida State EDGE Jared Verse with the No. 13 pick. Here is why Nate Davis believes he would fit in Las Vegas:
A team now coached by a linebacker can probably expect a little more focus on its defense. Also, imagine how effective Maxx Crosby might be if there was someone offenses had to account for opposite him?
This is an interesting fit for a variety of reasons, but it is worth mentioning that Verse might be the most complete defensive end in this class. He is an excellent run defender who can also put pressure on the quarterback.
However, the Raiders just selected Tyree Wilson last year with the hopes that he could be that type of player. Plus, Malcolm Koonce has finally developed into a quality player and should see more time with the starters in 2024.
Verse should be a top-15 pick in April’s draft, but his fit in Las Vegas would be a bit of a strange one. We aren’t ruling it out, but expect the Raiders to draft a cornerback or an offensive player with their first-round pick instead.
