The 2023 Senior Bowl kicks off on Tuesday as the teams will finally get out on the practice field to get some work in. The Raiders have a unique opportunity this year as Patrick Graham (defensive coordinator) will be coaching the National Team.
While this roster lacks any sure-fire first-round picks, there are several quality offensive linemen on the team. One the Raiders will certainly monitor is Ohio State’s Dawand Jones. Here is what ESPN’s Todd McShay had to say about the fit between the Raiders and Jones this week:
“I’ll start with Graham, who will probably be keeping an eye on the offensive linemen (even though he’s a defensive coordinator in Las Vegas). Outside of figuring out the quarterback situation, addressing that unit will be a focus for the Raiders this offseason.
Graham will have a close look at Ohio State’s Dawand Jones and North Dakota State’s Cody Mauch, both of whom are on his National team roster. They could help shore up that Las Vegas line that has question marks outside of Kolton Miller.”
Jones was already one of the biggest winners of the week as his now-verified 89″ wingspan is the longest in NFL history. He has elite size and length, which is a must at right tackle.
Jones is expected to be picked inside the top 50 and could be an option for the Raiders in Round 2. Look for the Raiders to keep a close eye on him during the practices this week as he could be their long-term solution on the right side.
