Updating Oakland Raiders draft options

March 24, 2:31 AMOakland Raiders ExaminerPatrick Patterson

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Defensive line needs some help
Photo by Patrick A. Patterson/TFDSsports.com

 

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The Oakland Raiders made a key move the other day to acquire center Samson Satele from the Miami Dolphins for their sixth round pick and a swap of fourth round picks. This move greatly reduces the need at center and changes the Raiders draft priorities yet again and creates more options. 

The acquisition of Satele likely means that the Raiders won't be looking center with their second round pick as expected. There was even some speculation they may break with orthodoxy and draft Alex Mack with their number seven pick.

With the number seven pick, the Raiders will have several options depending on who falls to them. If B.J. Raji falls into their laps at seven, that would be a perfect scenario as defensive tackle is the weakest link on the roster.

If Raji is off the board, the Raiders are likely to consider a defensive end such as Brian Orapko out of Texas. The Raiders defensive line were not very effective at stopping the run or getting to the quarterback. Much blame for this had been laid at the feet of former defensive coordinator Rob Ryan, but the line has to be more effective at holding their ground.

The most popular choice would be Texas Tech wide receiver Michael Crabtree. Prior to his foot injury that cost him a chance to workout at the combine it was widely believed that there was no way that Crabtree would still be on the board at seven. However, that injury and Seattle's acquisition of a wide receiver makes it much more likely that he will be there for the taking. There are some who say the Raiders may opt for Missouri's Jeremy Maclin over Crabtree. However, Maclin's lack of height and disappointing 40 time did nothing to endear himself to Al Davis.

The Raiders could also decide to upgrade their offensive line and take one of the top tackles. Andre Smith has had questions about his work ethic which were heightened by his disappointing performance at the scouting combine. Either Michael Oher or Eugene Monroe would be logical picks here. Barnes was only signed for one year, and Mario Henderson looked promising, but only saw action in a few games so he is largely unknown.