If the mock drafts are any indication of what will happen on the first day of the draft, then the Raiders are expected to pick a wide receiver at No. 12. And considering the team’s need at the position along with the talent that is likely to be available, that seems like a very realistic scenario for the Raiders.
In most mock drafts, the Raiders then turn their attention to linebacker with the No. 19 pick in the first round. Typically, the two names that are often discussed at that spot are LSU’s Patrick Queen and Oklahoma’s Kenneth Murray.
Both players are incredibly athletic, and their best football is likely still ahead of them. At the NFL Combine, Murray spoke very glowingly about the Raiders and his desire to play for the Silver and Black this season:
“I really love their staff, they have some really great coaches. The Raiders, a phenomenal program, a phenomenal team, obviously the history that the Raiders have on defense. So really, really good with them. I truly do believe I’m the best inside linebacker in this draft. I believe from a leadership standpoint, I believe from an athletic standpoint. I think I truly just separate myself.”
Murray had an outstanding year for the Sooners in 2019, recording 102 tackles with four sacks and four pass deflections. While Queen may have more athletic upside, it’s Murray who is more ready to step in and contribute right away in the NFL.
Given Murray’s desire to play with the Raiders and his utmost confidence in himself, look for the Raiders to consider drafting the former Sooner linebacker at pick No. 19 in the 2020 NFL Draft.
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