It’s mock draft season. I know, it seems like that season never really ends, but now is the time we actually start paying attention to them. And with that in mind, Mike Mayock’s heir apparent Daniel Jeremiah has released his first mock draft for 2021.
The Raiders sit at 17 overall in the first round where Jeremiah sees them doing something they haven’t done in a very long time — addressing the linebacker position.
Pick 17. Las Vegas Raiders
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB, Notre Dame
Owusu-Koramoah is a dynamic athlete at the second level of the defense. He can cover in the slot if needed and he’s an excellent blitzer. The Raiders need to address the pass rush, too, and that could be an option here with this pick.
Jeremiah was asked about this pick on twitter and this was his response:
Gus Bradley's defense requires linebackers to cover, especially against the number three inside WR on over routes. If you can't run/cover, that defense doesn't work.
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) January 22, 2021
Last offseason, the Raiders made a big investment in Cory Littleton in part for his coverage abilities. Littleton didn’t live up to his reputation, though some believe Paul Guenther’s scheme was the primary culprit. Guenther was fired and Littleton still has a lot of money tied up in his services for the Raiders not to give him another shot.
Other than Littleton, the Raiders must decide what to do with Nicholas Morrow, who was their best linebacker last season, and is headed for free agency should they not re-sign him. He is known for his coverage abilities as well. Should they bring him back, taking a linebacker with their top pick becomes far less likely.
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