If we have learned anything about the Raiders over the last week of free agency, it’s that the Raiders are plugging holes on defense so they can use the No. 12 pick to address their need at receiver.
While it’s possible that the best player on the board for the Raiders at No. 12 is a defender, it seems very likely that the team will grab a receiver at that spot. But deciding who they may target is anyone’s guess.
For the most part, the decision likely will come down to Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb or Alabama’s Jerry Jeudy if they are both on the board. However, we certainly can’t rule out the possibility that the Raiders pass on both in favor of Henry Ruggs III.
In a recent mock draft by Michael Renner of Pro Football Focus, the Raiders selected Ruggs at No. 12 due to his outstanding speed. As Renner points out, Lamb and Jeudy are the more complete receiver, but Ruggs’ speed is a trump card that few teams can match. Take a look at Renner’s thoughts on the pairing below:
Ruggs’ 4.27 speed an 42-inch vertical will play at the next level. He may not be as complete a receiver as Lamb or Jeudy, but where he wins is the most valuable. The question that needs to be asked, though, is this: With those immense physical tools, why was he fourth on Alabama’s own roster in deep catches last year with four?
Ruggs has made his way into the discussion at No. 12 due to his speed and natural receiving ability. While he needs to continue to develop as a route runner, his natural hands and ball-tracking ability make him a worthwhile top-15 pick. Keep an eye on Ruggs as a possible surprise selection for the Raiders in the first round.
