Raiders' Shift Gears in Mock Draft, Add to Defense

The Las Vegas Raiders had the worst ground game of any team in the National Football League last season, finishing last in yards per game. However, they have so many positions that need help that the draft could go many different directions for the Silver and Black.

Cameron Sheath of the Pro Football Network recently released an updated mock draft, which has the Raiders bypassing their need for an improved ground game and skipping on running back Ashton Jeanty.

However, Sheath has another top option that would be a good fit.

"The Raiders’ running game was so bad in 2024 that it was incredibly difficult not to put Ashton Jeanty here. But in a deep running back class, Mason Graham provides the team with an opportunity to pivot and build a dominant defensive line," Sheath said.

Sheath noted that pairing Graham with the likes of Christian Wilkins and Maxx Crosby would help add talent and depth to a Raiders' defensive line that is in desperate need of it. Wilkins' injury last season showed how little depth the Raiders have along its defensive line.

"Graham is a high-impact player with the speed, quickness, and power to disrupt the game in both phases. Graham may not have the ceiling of a player like Jalen Carter, who athletically has more to offer, but his knack for interior penetration and stout run defending will make him an instant key contributor in the NFL," Sheath said.