While there are suddenly doubts about whether there will be a college football season or not, it’s never too early to look ahead to the 2021 NFL Draft.
For the Raiders, the roster seems pretty much set going into the future as they have filled most of their most significant holes with draft picks and free-agent signings this offseason. However, the one position that could always use more talent is at cornerback.
In a recent mock draft by Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report, he gave the Raiders cornerback Patrick Surtain II from Alabama. With Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden’s love for big schools and defensive backs, this seems like a perfect match for the Raiders. Here is a snippet of Sobleski’s thoughts on the player and the potential fit with Las Vegas:
“Surtain was made to play cornerback. His bloodline and natural tools are undeniable. His father, Patrick Surtain, played 11 seasons in the NFL as a cornerback and made three Pro Bowls. The younger defensive back stands 6’2” and 203 pounds. He’s a prototypical outside corner even as Alabama’s coaching staff considers moving him to the “Star”/nickelback position.
His potential addition could create even more flexibility within the Raiders secondary. (Damon) Arnette and Surtain can play inside or outside without being exposed. The trio of Arnette, Surtain and Trayvon Mullen would give Las Vegas one of the league’s best young cornerback rooms.”
The Raiders are hoping that Arnette and fourth-round pick Amik Robertson can get up to speed quickly in 2020. But if they struggle at all, don’t be surprised if the team continues to add to the position in next year’s draft.
Surtain is one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2021 class and is someone Raiders’ fans should keep an eye on, assuming there is a college football season.
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