By almost all accounts, the Oakland Raiders had a successful draft. They were able to address their most significant needs at defensive end, running back and cornerback in the first two days of the draft. However, not everyone was thrilled with the “value” of some of their selections.
According to Luke Easterling of the Draft Wire, Raiders’ safety Johnathan Abram was named as one of the worst value picks of the first round. Abram was the No. 27 pick but was graded as just the 67th-best player in the 2019 draft. Only Daniel Jones, Kaleb McGary, L.J. Collier, and Tytus Howard were named worst picks by the site.
Abram was seen as a fringe first-round pick by most draft analysts due to his aggressive nature and ability to make big plays in the run game. However, his coverage skills can be inconsistent at times and lacks ideal size for the position.
Luckily for Abram, he will get a chance to prove his doubters wrong early into his career as he has already earned playing time due to a strong mini-camp. Look for the rookie safety from Mississippi State to be the Raiders’ starting strong safety this season.
